Touring Australia Summer 2016/17 Touring Australia | Page 13

GEN e x p lo r in g r el a xi n g ca m pi ng It’s not always easy to find someone who is able to look after your pets when you go away. There are many caravan parks and camp sites which will allow you to bring your best friend with you, and of course your family. There are guidelines to follow and precautions to take, for you and your pet. Ring ahead and confirm that the park or site accepts pets and they may have guidelines of their own which must be adhered to. Have your pet also go through a general health check before you set off. Make sure before you leave that your pet is flee free. This includes all his bedding, blankets and travel gear as well as a first aid kit including bandages, burn cream and sting/bite solution. Tip: also pack a spare rug to cover any furniture at the place you’re staying. Don’t forget your pet’s bowls and food, it may be hard to obtain dog food you know he will eat and you know he will be able to stomach. Having a dog you would know that they are scavengers, hunters and explorers so make sure you know where he is at all times. When travelling, make sure your dog is secure, preferably in a specially designed dog seatbelt, for his safety as well as your own. There are also ‘canine carriers’ available which are like little tents just for your dog. They can fold down when he’s not using it and it can be strapped into the car while travelling. T i p: Don’t let your pets scaven ge in the wild. They can disturb wildlife and habitats as well as try and hunt native birds and disturb habitats for which you wil l be responsible. By following these few tips, there’s no reason why your best frie nds should miss out on family holidays. Also NEVER leave your dog in the car, no matter how quick you think you will be. Dogs have different sweat glands to people and won’t last long in a hot car. Always clean up after you dog and make sure he is well behaved and won’t bark all night and ruin your and others’ holidays. Also check the signs posted at National Parks and beaches for permission to take your dog along. www.touring-australia.net 13