Tips for taking your pet on holiday

Holidays are all about making memories so it’s not surprising more and more of us are keen to take our furry friends away on short trips.

There are several things you need to consider when planning a pet-friendly holiday. For example, does the accommodation accept animals and if so, are there any restrictions? Are they allowed in parks, beaches and at cafes in the area? With a little planning, you can have a safe and happy holiday for all the family members — including those of the canine kind.

The accommodation

You must secure pet-friendly accommodation before you do anything else. Don’t risk booking one that prohibits animals, only to be turned away on arrival because you’ve been caught smuggling Fido in. And unfortunately, no, it doesn’t matter how well-behaved or small he or she is.

Once you’ve found a selection of suitable properties, ask yourself these questions:

• Will you be charged extra if your pet stays?
• Can you bring more than one dog?
• Are only smaller breeds permitted?
• Are they allowed inside as well as out? If allowed indoors, are there areas that are out of bounds? For example, the property owners may not appreciate them in the carpeted areas or on beds.
• Will the dog be comfortable sleeping outside or will it bark all night in an unfamiliar setting, disturbing residents and other holiday-makers?
• Is there a secure fence around the property? If there is a pool, does it have a fence too?
• Does your pet shed a lot of fur or need special maintenance that may impact your care of the property?
• Is there plenty of shade and a comfortable outdoor area to roam around?
• Is there a risk it will chase or even hurt wildlife?

Private Properties has a selection of homes that allow dogs to stay with their family. These include:

Marribrae

Marribrae in Yallingup is a handsome eight-acre property dotted with marri trees and views of Gunyulgup Valley. Sleeping up to 12 people, Marribrae has a tree swing, trampoline and cubby house for the children, plus a BBQ, pizza oven, fenced pool and a jetty by the dam to jump off.

Makesh

A spacious, country home located on a few acres in the Meelup Hills. At Makesh there is plenty of room for the whole family with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms accommodating up to ten people plus your pooch can run about under the native Peppermint trees. And you’re close to two of the region’s most picturesque beaches, Eagle Bay and Meelup Beach.

Makesh, Dunsborough

Nikabel Beach House

Nikabel Beach House will put you straight into holiday mode. Accommodating up to 11 guests in a classic beach house style, Nikabel is situated in an area locals lovingly refer to as ‘Old Dunsborough’. The house is brimming with holiday activities, including a games room with table tennis and a dart board, and the beach is just a short stroll away.

Where is your dog allowed?

Out & about discovering the South-West, there are plenty of parks, beaches, wineries and cafes that welcome our canine friends.

Cafes and Wineries

You can still enjoy the South-West’s fabulous food and wine with your pet in tow. Dog-friendly cafes and restaurants are aplenty, check out these great eateries with your furry friend.

Beaches

There are lots of dog-friendly beaches all along the coast. These include major beaches like Flinders Bay in Augusta, Prevelly and Gnarabup Beaches near Margaret River, Yallingup Beach and also the Dunsborough Foreshore. Find out more in our Blog and on the Dog Friendly WA website.

Parks

As well as local parks, some forests also allow pooch access. These include Blackwood State Forest, where there are lots of family-friendly water activities in the Blackwood River, Big Brook State Forest in the land of the enormous Karri trees, and Gull Rock National Park near Albany. If you feel like climbing one of the State’s huge trees, Diamond Tree also allows dogs to enter the park.

Find even more sites on the WA Government’s Parks and Wildlife website.

Pet health on holiday

You wouldn’t just jump in the car with no clothes, toiletries or money. It’s no different for your pet. For the road trip, make sure your dog is restrained or sitting in a comfortable travel crate out of the sun. Feed and hydrate them well before the road trip, to reduce the risk of any mishaps. Also be aware that some animals get car sick, so make sure you have plastic bags and paper towel or wet wipes to clean up with.

The same goes with mess when you’re at your destination. Pack small handy bags for waste, a lead and a jacket for cold or wet weather (the crisp South-West night air can sometimes be a surprise). Also bring a familiar bed and blanket from home, dog chews or toys to keep them occupied and to prevent constant barking. Tick and flea treatment would also be a handy addition.

Be aware of potential dangers and be mindful of how your pet interacts with local wildlife; your dog is the guest here, not the other way around. When visiting parks and the beach, do not ever leave your pet in the car, no matter how moderate you think the weather is. Also, note where the local vet is located. If your beloved pooch falls ill, you will thank yourself later for being prepared. Lastly, double-check they have a collar and name tag with your contact phone number engraved on it; the last thing you want is to lose them in an unfamiliar area.

Why not plan your pet-friendly break in WA’s beautiful South-West region? Private Properties offers several luxurious homes in the area. To see the full collection click here.