Packing for a holiday with dogs - Empty Nesters Travel Insights

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Holiday with Dogs

When we travel within Australia, our “fur family” often travel with us. We’ve enjoyed many trips with the dogs. From five week long road trips, to short weekend getaways. The right equipment and a little planning will make sure your dogs are both safe and comfortable when travelling, so you can all enjoy a holiday with dogs.

Transporting your dog

The first thing you will need to think about how you are going to transport your dogs. Regulations within Australia vary from state to state, but it is mandatory to have your dogs properly secured.

Also be aware of leaving your dog in the car, particularly if it is hot. A dog die in a hot car in a very short period of time. There are varying laws in all Australian states regarding leaving dogs unattended in cars.

When travelling in Mum’s car we use a pet safety harness that links into the seatbelt on the back seat. This is a really simple option if you are transporting only one or two small dogs.

Sleeping

You can also get a range of Portable dog crates that will fit easily on the back seat of your car, or back of your station wagon. These are great, collapsible and can double as a bed.

Mandy has, however “single pawedly” chewed the zippers out of four of these crates in her lifetime, so we now stick to collapsible metal crates. The added benefit of crates are that they provide a “secure” space for your dog in unfamiliar surroundings.

Collapsible dog crate

You will also need lots of dog bedding to make sure they are comfortable and warm.

Feeding your dog

Hanging water buckets to make sure the dogs have fresh water while travelling, without spilling all over their crates They are also great for feeding “on the go”.
A supply of your usual water. Even the slightest change in the mineral content of the water supply can upset your dog’s stomach. We also buy bottled water on the trip.
I’ve found 600 ml bottles of water are ideal for filling up the water buckets on the road to give them a good drink after a fun expedition
A few bags of their usual dry food. It is really important to make sure your dog’s diet remains as similar as possible while travelling to avoid tummy upsets. Trust me, there are few things as unpleasant as travelling with a dog who is “scouring”.

Medical

Your dog’s usual medications.
Chat to your vet about what additional treatments may be advisable, such as tick treatment if you are visiting a tick prone area.
A small first aid kit to treat any small cuts, bites, or skin irritations. A tick remover is also a useful tool.
Vaccination records. If you want to visit National Parks or other areas where dogs are not allowed, you may need to put your dog in “doggy day care” or a boarding kennel for a day or so. You will need proof of your dog’s current vaccinations.

Dog travel accessories

There are a few accessories that we always take with us when travelling with the dogs to make sure they are as comfortable as possible.

Spare leads in case one breaks or gets lost
dog coats will help to keep them warm in winter,
there are also cooling coats which can help to keep them cool in the hotter months.
A dog playpen can provide a secure yard for feeding and resting at camp.
This portable dog run is one of the best dog travelling investments we ever made. Long pegs secure a series series of metal panels into the ground like a tent peg.. They can be assembled in any configuration to suit your campsite and provide a “yard” for your dog. We certainly wouldn’t leave them unattended, but they are great when you are chilling at camp and can keep an eye on them.
A large supply of poo bags
a poo scoop to pic up after the furkids.
A couple of familiar toys will help them to feel secure in unfamiliar surroundings. A good old fashioned ball is an excellent way of exercising your dogs if they have been in the car for a long period.

With a little planning and the right equipment it is possible to have a great holiday away with your dogs.

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