So you want to enjoy a caravan adventure but the thought of leaving your dog at home makes you sad.
Fair enough, our pets are part of the family and leaving them behind can be a wrench.
So what’s the best way you and your precious pooch can enjoy a caravan holiday?
First up, a little bit of planning is involved. There are plenty of camping spots and holiday parks that allow pets, but most of them don’t or have onerous rules. Do some online research for your itinerary first. The larger chains have listings for dog-friendly parks, or there’s a listing for dog-friendly parks here.
Be aware that many caravan parks which allow pets, do not allow pets to be left alone, so if you are planning any excursions away from the park which don’t allow pets, you will need to have your dog looked after by a pet sitter, a friendly fellow traveller or put into a kennel.
Please never camp on private land with your pet without the owner’s permission. Too many people let their dogs run free near stock which is dangerous for both the pet and the stock. There is also the chance your dog will run off and never return. This is such a problem in many farming areas that some primary producers have had to give up farming sheep due to dog attacks.
Dog friendly
But back to the more heartwarming stuff.
So you have your dog-friendly itinerary, next up is ensuring your dog is ready for the journey.
Take your dog to the vet and make sure they are up to date with vaccinations and tick and worm treatments and get a copy of their vaccination records. If they are on medication, ask for extra prescriptions to take with you. If they have a microchip, make sure the records are up to date. It never hurts to ask for any advice about travelling while you are there.
It’s a good idea to start small with short trips, maybe overnight or a long weekend.
That way if something goes wrong or your dog isn’t coping with travelling, there’s no serious harm done, and alternative arrangements can be made.
Your dog will at some stage need to be restrained, so you must have a sturdy lead with a clip. Your dog’s collar should also be well made and have your name and contact details on it, either printed on the collar, or on a tag.
And unless your dog is a very good traveller, you will need a car restraint or luggage barrier. If the worst happens, an unrestrained dog could do quite some damage to themselves or you in an accident.
Food and drink
For feeding time, collapsable water and food bowls will be a space saver, but check them out carefully, because some are a bit wonky.
A good supply of food is vital if you are planning on going a bit more off the beaten track and you will also need a good store of dog poo bags. Please use them even if you are in the middle of nowhere. Dogs’ faeces can carry bacteria that could be harmful to native species.
Make sure your dog has it’s own sleeping space, bedding and plenty of favourite toys. It can make all the difference to keeping them calm.
And while we are on that topic, don’t give up on their exercise regime. Extended car or caravan travel is not ideal for an animal designed to run. Schedule some walk or exercise time every day.
Have you travelled with a dog? Why not share your tips in the comments section below?
Also read: Six of the best winter wonders in Australia
