Pet-Friendly Travel in Australia
A Veterinarian’s Guide to Holidaying with Dogs
Holidaying with dogs can be an incredible experience, especially with the increasing number of pet-friendly travel options available across Australia.
Excitingly, Virgin Australia has announced plans to introduce in-cabin pet travel on select domestic flights, making it more convenient than ever for pet owners to travel with their four-legged friends. While this service is still awaiting regulatory approval, it is expected to launch soon.
With this in mind, let’s explore what you need to consider when traveling around Australia with your dog.
The importance of tick prevention
Paralysis ticks are very uncommon in Melbourne, as a result several dogs and cats in Melbourne are not on regular prevention for paralysis ticks. If you take your pet to Queensland or New South Wales it is imperative that you provide them with tick prevention prior to your trip.
Tick paralysis is often fatal and prevention is much easier (and cheaper) than treatment. If you are taking your dog or cat on an interstate trip, please book a consultation with one of our veterinarians to discuss the best prevention option.
The importance of dog vaccinations and deworming
Before embarking on any journey, it's essential to ensure your dog is up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations and deworming. This not only protects them from various infectious diseases but also aligns with travel requirements, especially when crossing state lines.
For instance, taking your dog to Tasmania necessitates treatment for hydatids tapeworm 14 days prior to departure, with evidence of effective treatment required upon arrival.
If you are taking your dog or cat to tropical regions such as North Queensland or the Northern Territory, we strongly recommend that they are up to date with heartworm and hookworm worm prevention. Both of these worms can cause life threatening conditions.
Preparing for air travel with your dog
If you're planning on flying with a dog, it's important to understand the airline's pet travel policies in advance.
While Virgin Australia is working towards allowing in-cabin pet travel, other airlines have their own regulations. Ensuring your dog meets all health and vaccination requirements is key to a smooth journey.
Currently, dogs must travel in the cargo hold on domestic flights. Rest assured, this area is designed with pet safety in mind - it is pressurised, temperature-controlled, and well-lit, keeping your pet comfortable and secure, away from passengers' luggage.
We can provide your pet with medication (anxiolytics) to reduce the stress caused by travel. New medication is now available to ensure your pet travels in the most fear free manner possible. These anxiolytics are also very safe and have minimal side effects.
Steps to prepare your dog for travel
Book a health check-up to confirm your dog is fit for travel and to discuss any required vaccinations or treatments.
Review airline pet travel policies, including carrier size, weight limits, and vaccination requirements, to ensure compliance.
Make sure your dog has proper identification, including a microchip and a collar with an ID tag displaying your contact details.
Help your dog adjust to their travel carrier by introducing it well in advance, allowing them to get comfortable and reduce travel-related stress.
What about driving around Australia with a dog?
Driving around Australia is easy and can be a fantastic way to explore the country with your dog.
Some dogs do suffer from motion sickness. However, there is a highly effective veterinary medication designed to counteract car sickness in dogs. If your dog feels nauseous or drools excessively in the car please do get in touch - we would love to be able to make car trips easier for you both.
Road trips for dogs are a great flexible and stress-free alternative to flying, especially if they’re anxious travellers or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds that may struggle with air travel.
With proper planning, plenty of rest stops, and pet-friendly destinations along the way, a road trip can be an enjoyable and comfortable experience for both you and your dog.
Why travel with your dog?
Bringing your pet along eliminates the stress of finding reliable care while you're away and ensures they get to share in the fun.
With an increasing number of dog-friendly accommodations, parks, and even transport options, traveling with your dog has never been easier.
Travelling to different states with your dog
Exploring different states in Australia with your dog can be an exciting adventure, but careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Each state has its own pet travel regulations, including quarantine rules, vaccination requirements.
While health checks are generally not required for domestic flights, senior dogs and brachycephalic ( “flat faced”) breeds must undergo a vet check before flying.
At Tooronga Veterinary Hospital, we recommend a pre-travel health check for all dogs to give you peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip without worrying about your pet’s well-being
Your next adventure awaits
Travelling Australia with a dog can be a great adventure, but it does require thoughtful preparation, with parasite prevention being a critical component.
By staying informed about travel regulations and ensuring your dog meets all health requirements, you can look forward to a safe and enjoyable journey together.
For more guidance, get in touch with our team today.
