Holidaying with pets

Is it time to hit the road, let go and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Sounds like it’s time for a holiday! But what to do with your furry friends? Why not take your best friend with you! A holiday with you pets can be a fun and refreshing experience for all involved and thankfully, Australia is one of the best places to go holidaying with pets. 

Where to stay? 

When choosing accommodation for your getaway, make sure that it has all of the amenities that your pet requires. That may be a secure outdoor area or yard or specific sleeping arrangements. Your pet may feel a bit unsettled in their new environment, so it’s a good idea to confirm clear identification is on your dog before travelling. Also, make sure that you pet is microchipped as this will make things easier, if they do become lost. To check that the details are up to date on the microchip visit petaddress.com.au

A city escape with pup in toe is also an option, as Australian cities are notably dog friendly. There are large parks where your pup can get out and stretch his legs and many cafes, restaurants and breweries are set up to welcome four-legged patrons too. As for city accommodation, you may be able to find houses and cottages not too far from the city centre while some apartment complexes are happy to welcome small breed dogs. You will no doubt be able to find you perfect pet friendly accommodation (holidayingwithdogs.com.au) at any location throughout Australia. 

If you are planning to go camping or will be travelling by caravan or motor-home it is a great opportunity to bring your dog along, as there are countless pet friendly campsites around Australia. Be sure to plan ahead though, to make sure that your next stop allows dogs on its premises. 

While there are plenty of pet friendly accommodation options available, it’s also helpful to know where dogs can and can’t go, as you will most likely be out exploring while on holiday. In Australia, dogs are not permitted within the limits of national parks, nature reserves and indigenous areas. Fortunately there are still plenty of other natural wonders to explore with your pooch, many of which will require your dog to be kept on a leash. Takeyourpet.com.au is a great resource full of great ideas for getting out and about with your pets. 

Holidaying with pets Pet Care

What to pack when holidaying with pets? 

So, you’ve picked a destination to enjoy but what is your pup going to need to make their holiday a comfortable get away? 

  • Leash or harness for going on walks. It’s handy to have a leash that allows for your dog to be clipped to a fence, chair etc. while you’re out and about. 
  • Food and water bowls and a portable water bottle
  • Food and snacks.
  • Bedding – some places may require you to bring your own pet bedding.
  • Poop bags for cleaning up after you dog. Make sure that your pet is offered plenty of toilet breaks, in an attempt to avoid ‘accidents’.
  • ID tag attached to you pets collar. Make sure that it has your phone number on it! 
  • If you are travelling by car, don’t risk a fine for having unruly or unsafe pets in the vehicle. Make sure pets are restrained using the seatbelt or with a suitable harness. They may also feel comfortable in a travel crate.  Use a car seat cover to give your pet added comfort and to protect you cars’ interior.  
  • Travel ramp – to simplify getting in and out of the car. 
  • If you are travelling by plane with a small breed dog, a pet carry bag or a wheeled pet transporter can make moving about the airport a bit easier. 

Can’t take them with you? 

Sometimes it’s just not possible to holiday with your pets. Cats, birds, guinea pigs and rabbits are not as well suited to travelling as dogs are. Maybe you will be travelling too far to take your dog along or your accommodation doesn’t allow pets or maybe the holiday simply isn’t suited to pets. That’s ok, there are options to make sure your pet is still cared for. 

Pet resorts and boarding kennels provide your pet with a safe space where they will be cared for in your absence by animal loving staff. At the pet resorts there is the chance to exercise and socialise with other guests and grooming may also be available.  

Holidaying with pets Pet Care

For some pets, it’s easier if you can get a friend or family member to have your pet stay at their place or they could come to your place to care for your pets and your house as well.

It’s a given that your pets are going to miss you a lot, if you are absent for a long period of time, so to make it easier on them, it may be best if they stay at their own home and have someone come to care for them. It’s even better still if your pet is quiet familiar with their new carer. 

Even if you don’t know someone that is able to care for your pet in your absence, you could hire a house sitter or a pet sitter. A house sitter will reside at your house while you are away and will care for your pets. Whilst a pet sitter will simply come to your place to care for the pet, which may even include taking the dog for a walk. 

Holidaying with pets Pet Care

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out and explore our great land with your best friend by or side. If you’re an avid pet traveller, let us know about the adventures that you’ve had together. 

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