Exploring the motives and constraints shaping dog owners’ pet tourism intentions for overnight stays

Abstract

The study examines motives and constraints shaping South African dog owners’ intentions to include their canine companions in overnight leisure travel. Drawing on attachment theory and leisure constraint theory, the conceptual framework distinguishes three predictor categories: bond-related motives (pet attachment, perceived travel benefits for dogs, reciprocity), owner-related motives (socialisation, prestige, novelty), and pet-related constraints (pet-specific, interpersonal, structural barriers). Data were collected from 437 South African dog owners through self-administered online questionnaires. The measurement model was validated through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and hypothesised relationships were tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). The measurement and structural models demonstrated acceptable fit. Results indicate that dog owners’ pet tourism intentions are positively predicted by pet attachment and novelty and negatively predicted by pet-specific and structural constraints. Novelty emerged as the strongest predictor, indicating that seeking novel dog-inclusive overnight travel experiences outweighs other examined motives and constraints for South African dog owners. Notably, perceived travel benefits for dogs, reciprocity, socialisation, prestige, and interpersonal constraints did not exert significant effects in the South African context. The findings highlight the importance of owner-related motives, particularly novelty-seeking, and emotional bonds (pet attachment) in motivating overnight pet-inclusive travel and emphasise that practical and pet-related barriers (pet-specific and structural constraints) can dampen intentions. For tourism and hospitality providers, addressing motivational and constraint-based factors—particularly through improved pet-friendly amenities and reduced structural obstacles—is crucial for attracting this emerging market. By integrating motivational and constraint perspectives, the research provides a framework for understanding and advancing dog-friendly tourism strategies in South Africa and similar markets.