The pet holiday market is booming.

The latest report from Animal Medicines Australia* revealed 25% of all pet owners said they took their pets on holidays or road trips, including 35% of dog owners.

Whether you are road tripping or flying, camping or staying in accommodation with your pet, PETstock PETschool trainer Mandi Wright has compiled her top tips to ensure your getaway is a success.

Road tripping with pets

While, not required by law in Queensland, restraining your pet in the car enhances safety for your pet and other passengers. It is an offence to drive with a pet on your lap.

Making sure your buddy is secure by travelling with a drive harness and anchor, pet carrier or cargo barrier installed will ensure you and your pet’s safety during transit.

Dogs travelling on the back of utes must be restrained by a tether or be inside a carrier.

Click here for information on laws relating to travelling with your pet in a vehicle.

Regular pit stops with rest areas to stretch legs and toilet breaks should be mapped out in advance.

Flying with pets

If you’re jet-setting with your furry friend, it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to guarantee their flying experience goes as smoothly as possible.

To ensure your pet is flight-ready, take your pet to the vet for a checkup. The vet will assess your pet’s health and make sure their vaccinations, worming and flea and tick treatments are up-to-date.

If you have a particularly anxious or hyperactive dog and you’re nervous about travelling with them, it’s also a good idea to ask your vet for something to help them feel calm.

On the day of your flight, go for a walk or play with your pet before heading off to the airport to tire them out. Make sure you pack their leash, any comfort items, toys, food, and medication that they may need for the trip.

Pet-friendly accommodation

Many travellers cannot bear the thought of a holiday without their furry friend. Luckily, pet-friendly travel and accommodation options are on the rise.

If you’re planning to stay in a pet-friendly holiday home, it’s important to ensure your pet is comfortable and calm in their new surroundings.

When dogs and cats move away from their usual environment, they feel as though they are separated from their space or territory and can become anxious.

This anxiety can be characterised with signs of distress including destruction to the home, pacing, excessive barking, digging, or even attempting to escape.

In saying that, it's a good idea to allow your pet to re-orient themselves and explore their new surroundings when you first arrive at your accommodation.

Be sure to bring along your dog’s regular bedding, water bowl, leash, treats, toys, and any other necessary equipment.

Also, dogs thrive on routine, so keep to your pet's regular schedule as much as possible.

Campsite safety

Before you venture out, make sure your campsite is dog-friendly and schedule a vet appointment to confirm your buddy is up to date with vaccinations and worming.

To ensure that your dog has a safe and comfortable holiday, pack and prepare for the unexpected with extra food, medication and emergency supplies.

As dogs are not allowed to be off leash at most campsites, it’s also best to take a ground stake and extra-long lead so they can roam freely as possible.

Dogs and other pets are allowed in some Queensland conservation parks, state forests and recreation areas but not national parks.

You can travel through a national park with your dog in the vehicle. The dog must stay in the vehicle and you can only travel on gazetted roads.

Click here for more information on rules relating to dogs and pets in parks and forests.

Snakes are common in Australia and can make your pet dangerously ill. Do not let your dog explore holes, high grass and rocks around the campsite where snakes like to rest.

Symptoms of a snake bite include lethargy, drooling, wobbliness and vomiting. If you suspect your dog may have been bitten by a snake, seek veterinary attention immediately.

*Pets in Australia: A national survey of pets and people

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