It can be heartbreaking to leave your best mate behind, so why not choose a holiday destination where your dog can come along? Here are some ideas for pet-friendly getaways.

 

 

The Blue Mountains, NSW

The lovely areas of Katoomba, Leura, Blackheath and Oberon are all great places to getaway to, and there’s no reason your pet should have to stay at home. Check out Jenolan Caravan Park, which allows pets on lead and can help arrange pet-sitting services if you’re heading out for a day trip. For something luxe, try Lavender Manor in Blackheath (which also specialises in girls getaways).

Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

Escape to the seaside in Mornington Peninsula – both you and your pet will benefit from the fresh coastal air. The accommodation here includes comfy hotels, seaside cottages and caravan parks, some of which will welcome your pet with as much fervour as they welcome you. There are also plenty of off-lead exercise areas for you and your pup to stretch your legs.

Esperance, WA

Feel the serenity of rural Western Australia with a few nights at Nakuru Farmstay B&B, pet-friendly accommodation between Esperance and Cape Le Grand National Park. There are also caravan parks in town that accept canine guests, and Esperance Visitor Centre has a list of tips for those visiting with pets.

The Gold Coast, Queensland

For a classy getaway that both you and your dog will enjoy think about heading to the Gold Coast. There is over three kilometres of beach where your dog can run free off the lead, including parts of The Spit, Tallebudgera Beach and Palm Beach. The folks at Gold Coast Holiday Park love dogs as much as you do.

BIG4 Caravan Parks

Many of these caravan parks around Australia are pet-friendly. See their list of pet-friendly BIG4 sites to plan your getaway with your pet.

Tips for holidaying with your dog:

  • Check the local conditions to see that they’re acceptable for your pet. During the warmer months, ticks and fleas are more active.
  • There are rules and regulations for travelling interstate, including quarantine conditions that may make it impractical to take your pet. Make sure you research your destination before booking anything.
  • Dogs are not allowed in national parks. Also make sure you check the conditions of each dog park before entering with your dog and letting it off the lead.
  • Ensure your contact details connected with your dog’s microchip are up to date in case your pup gets lost!

If you’re driving, you may want to invest in a pet crate. Check out our tips for driving with your dog here. If you decide to leave your dog at home when you go away, Petbarn offers pet boarding services.