As pet owners, there’s nothing more adorable than taking our furry friends on a holiday adventure with us. Certainly, it seems many pet parents feel the same, as pet holiday bookings have risen a whopping 193% from 2019-2020.

Being able to explore new places and meet new friends with your four-legged friend by your side is awesome. So, there’s little surprise that requests for holidays with dogs in 2021 spiked by 68% compared to the requests made in 2020.

Pet holidays are a new kind of normal

Without a doubt, COVID-19 has changed the way we holiday. Forget overseas travels; for the time being, 2021 (and perhaps beyond) is seeing us Aussies travelling within our own country.

But what about our furry friends? Well, as mentioned, a rising number of pet parents are taking pet holidays. However, it’s not just dogs we’re taking on ‘vacay’ with us, we’re choosing to take our chirping chums with us too!

That’s right. Believe it or not, Camplify has witnessed a 200% increase in people taking their pet birds on holiday with them.

Of course, this trend in pet holidays is seeing a growing number of holiday rentals listing their accommodation as pet friendly to appeal to a larger audience. However, camping remains a popular choice for pet parents.

Dos and don’t when camping with pets

Of course, it’s important to do your homework when taking your pet on holiday. Be mindful that while some campsites claim to be pet–friendly, they may only allow pets out of the school holiday season. The last thing you want to do is travel a few hours, arrive at your destination and discover Fido isn’t welcome!

Aside from doing your research and making the necessary arrangements, here are a few dos and don’ts when camping with pets.

Do keep your leash handy

While most campsites state that dogs must be kept on the leash at all times, it’s important to abide by these rules. Take an extended length of rope and this way your dog is safe and secure but able to roam just a little further, while still under your watchful eye.

Don’t forget the essentials

Packing for a camping trip can be a big job. The best thing to do is to create a list, which you can add to every time you go camping (there’s always something you forget!).

When it comes to pet holidays, be sure to have a camping list for your pooch. Essential items include: bed, water bowl (plus a water bowl to take on the journey), food and food bowl, long leash, poop bags, brush and maybe Fido’s favourite toy.

Do bring a hose

Add ‘hose’ to your list of Things To Take Camping. If you have a powered site, in particular, taking a hose can be a godsend. Use it to wash down Fido and prevent sand and dirt from ending up in your tent.

Do check the rules in advance

There may be certain areas of the campsite your barking buddy is not allowed to venture into, such as the camp kitchen. You don’t want to unintentionally break the rules and be asked to leave. Talk about a pet holiday nightmare!

Do be mindful of water holes and wildlife

It’s important to protect our native animals, which means not allowing your feisty four-legged friend to chase unsuspecting birds and wildlife! Be prepared by training your dog well or taking lots of treats to encourage your fur pal to come to you, not dash after that Kangaroo.

Pet holidays can be so much fun. Certainly, camping with your canine companion is sure to create some fantastic memories. Let’s ensure these are happy memories by abiding by camp rules and keeping our barking buddy safe and under control.

 

Happy holidays, pet lovers!