Taking your Dog on Holiday
Next time you’re planning a holiday, don’t forget to include your dog. There are plenty of dog-friendly options available across your own country, ready for your next road trip with your dog. Here's my top tips on how to take your dog on holiday.
Tips for planning a holiday with your dog
- Keep vaccinations, worming, flea and tick medication up to date, along with documentation to prove it.
- Update all the contact information on your dog’s microchip and tag.
- Make plans to maintain your dog’s diet to avoid tummy upsets.
- Research the dog-friendly adventures you can take at all locations.
- Make a note of all vets in the area, including emergency or 24-hour vets.
- Find out if there are options if you need to leave your dog.
- Make sure to pack all your essential items for your dog.
- Make or buy a pet first aid kit just in case.
Tips for taking your dog on a road trip
- Make sure your dog is comfortable in the car for long periods.
- Ensure you have water available for your dog whilst youryou're driving.
- Take regular breaks to allow your dog to stretch their legs and use the toilet.
- Keep your dog restrained and safe, but also comfortable with room to move or stretch.
- Make sure to clean up after your dog along the way.
- Best not to give your pup a big meal before heading out on the road, it may end with the food coming back up in your car.
- Give your dog a toy that will keep them occupied in the car.
Tips for finding dog-friendly accommodation
- Check out websites like Holidaying with Dogs, Pupsy, Pet Friendly and Holidaypaws that all list a range of dog-friendly accommodation across the country.
- You can also check other accommodation websites and filter by “pets allowed”.
- Most caravan parks around Australia allow dogs on-site, which is perfect for those who camp or have campervans.
Some of the things to check with the accommodation directly include:
- The size of the accommodation - will your dog feel restricted or cooped up?
- Size limits - are there limits to the size of dog allowed?
- Extra fees - are there additional fees for taking a dog?
- The number of pets - can you have more than one dog?
- Restrictions - does your dog need to stay in one area? Do they need to be on-leash at all times?
- Left alone - Can you leave your dog unattended in the accommodation at all?
