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Paws a while: Holiday with your pet



There’s no need to board your pet when heading for a weekend away. Whether it’s grand luxury or the great outdoors, here’s a range of getaways where the welcome mat is rolled out for both you and your four-legged friend.

Australia-wide – take your pick!
Whether you would like your pet to be pampered in a palatial mansion or prefer a simple cabin by the beach, Stayz has a huge list of pet-friendly options – 2192 at last count! – throughout Australia.

‘Pet-friendly properties are incredibly popular on Stayz and are increasing in demand,’ says Kirsty Shaw, the general manager of Stayz ‘More and more Australians are choosing to stay local for their holidays and are wanting quality time with loved ones, including pets.’

Our favourites include a holiday home with a spa in beautiful Dunsborough, WA, or ‘Freycinet View’, offering a panorama view of the sea on Tasmania’s east coast. For great deals, visit stayz.com.au and totaltravel.com.au

A Harbour Retreat, Hervey Bay, Qld
Take the family and your pet to the whale watcher’s paradise of Hervey Bay. There’s plenty of room for outdoor frolicking at the Quarterdecks Harbour Retreat. The five-acre resort is in close proximity to the marina, shops, clubs, cafes and restaurants, as well as the stunning Fraser Coast. The best time to visit the area is during whale-watching season, which begins in July. To go: Rooms are available from $120 per night, conditions apply. Visit lastminute.com.au

Five-star city stay, Adelaide, SA
Planning a trip to the City of Churches? Give your dog or cat the treatment it deserves by booking into the Hilton Adelaide for some five-star pampering. Pet-friendly rooms have been designed to accommodate you and your beloved pet, and come complete with bed, bowl and tasty treats to make your pet’s stay – and yours – a pleasure. The hotel has been running the service for a few years and it’s proving to be very popular. To go: Room-only rate from $170, plus $90 for your pet (subject to availability). Maximum pet size is medium, up to 34kg. There is also a security deposit of $500 per stay to cover any extra cleaning or repair charges incurred. Maximum one pet per room. To book, visit hilton.com

Spa Country, Daylesford, Vic
The wonderful spa town of Daylesford in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges is very welcoming of four-legged friends. There’s an array of properties offering views of Lake Daylesford and terrific bushwalks. Pet owners will love the area’s fresh produce and wines, and will of course enjoy indulging in one of the natural mineral springs dotted around the area. To go: Visit dayget.com.au and choose from a number of pet-friendly, self-contained properties. Book online and save $10 a night.

A bush hideaway, Turon Gates, NSW
With thousands of acres of bush to explore, Turon Gates is a historic hideaway two-and-a-half hours west of Sydney on the road to Mudgee. Settle in a log cabin overlooking a crystal-clear trout stream or choose a cottage with a mountain view. Pets are welcome at this idyllic destination, you just need to bring their bedding and bowls. To go: Two nights for two adults and one pet costs from $320. Visit turongates.com

A Mountain View, Blue Mountains, NSW
Those wanting to breathe the fresh mountain air and take a stroll with Fido should head to Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa. Visiting dogs will receive a pet bed and a bowl and can dine on cuisine from a ‘Scooby Doo’ room service menu. To go: Deluxe rooms with breakfast are from $366 per night. Pets are $89 per night and must weigh under 20kg. Visit lilianfels.com.au

Tips for travelling with pets
■ Before you go, check which beaches and parks are dog-friendly by visiting local council websites.
■ Make sure your dog is microchipped and wears a collar and identification tag with your mobile number on it. Since they’re in an unfamiliar environment, pets can go walkabout or get lost.
■ Dogs love the open air from a moving car’s window but it can be unsafe. Keep the dog inside the car and let it enjoy the fresh air when you reach your destination.
■ Never leave animals in a car even with windows part-way down. Even on an overcast day, the temperature inside can rise to a lethal level within minutes.
■ Write down the number of a local vet and keep it handy in case of sprains, cuts and ticks. The RSPCA has more tips for taking your dog on a road trip
– visit kb.rspca.org.au

Packing checklist

Things you should pack for your pet are:

  • Your pet’s regular food and treats. Don’t forget a can opener if your dog eats canned food.

  • Bedding or a travel crate to sleep in.

  • Food and water bowls. You should also always carry a bottle of fresh water in case you can’t find a tap while out and about.

  • Collar and lead.

  • Your dog’s favourite toy.

  • Grooming equipment, including a towel in case your pet gets wet.

  • A ‘pooper scooper’ or plastic bags to clean up after your dog.

  • Sunscreen.

  • Medications and a first-aid kit.As dog owners, we need to respect those around us.