June 10, 2025
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Travelling with Your Dog in Australia
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Travelling with Your Dog in Australia.
Australia is an incredible place to explore with your four-legged friend – from coastal getaways to country road trips. But if you’ve ever travelled with your dog, you know it’s not always as simple as packing a lead and hitting the road.
We caught up with the team at Hanrob Pet Hotels to uncover the most common mistakes pet parents make on the road – and the expert tips they’ve learned from caring for thousands of travelling pets over the past 45+ years. At Hanrob Pet Hotels, they’ve seen the good, the bad, and the easily avoidable when it comes to pet travel.
Here are the top five mistakes to avoid when planning a trip with your dog in Australia – plus a helpful alternative if travelling with your pet isn’t possible this time around.
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Not Double-Checking If Your Accommodation Is Truly Pet Friendly
One of the most common missteps we hear about is assuming “pet friendly” means your dog can go anywhere on the property. Unfortunately, not all pet-friendly stays are created equal. Some only allow small dogs, restrict pets to outdoor areas, or charge unexpected fees.
“We booked a ‘pet-friendly’ Airbnb in Byron Bay,” shared Hanrob client Tracey. “But when we arrived, they said our golden retriever wasn’t allowed inside. We ended up having to drive up to Brisbane to drop our dog to Hanrob for the stay.”
Pro tip: Call ahead and ask specific questions – “Can my dog sleep indoors?”, “Are there off-lead areas?”, “Are there restrictions during school holidays?”
If you’re unsure whether your pet will be truly welcome (and comfortable), a premium pet hotel can be a safe, stress-free alternative while you enjoy your trip.
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Forgetting to Pack for Your Pet Properly
We often think about our own travel essentials – toiletries, snacks, chargers – but forget that dogs have their own needs too. Missing items like your pet’s food, medications, leash, or even their favourite toy can make the trip harder for both of you.
“We had a couple bring in their Cavoodle for dog boarding,” said Kathy, a Hanrob team member. “They forgot his special diet food, so we had to get it rushed in to make sure he didn’t get sick during his stay.”
Don’t forget:
- Regular food and treats
- Water bowl and travel bottle
- Medications or supplements
- Bedding or blankets with familiar smells
- Vaccination records (some parks and venues may ask)
We always advise pet parents to bring comfort items when dropping their dog off – the same applies on the road!
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Not Preparing Your Dog for the Journey
Not every dog is a natural traveller. If your dog isn’t used to long car rides or sleeping in new places, they might feel anxious or unsettled during the trip.
“At Hanrob, we rehome a lot of dogs overseas, and it is so important that we crate train every dog before their journey, so they are comfortable during their trip.” said Jake, Hanrob team member. “Without crate training the dogs, they may get stressed during the journey. The same concept applies with dogs in cars.”
Experience tip: Try taking your dog on a few shorter car trips and overnight stays before your holiday to help them get used to the routine.
If you’re flying or travelling long distances, speak to your vet about calming strategies or travel safety tips. And ensure your dog’s microchip and ID tags are up to date – just in case.
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Overlooking Local Rules, Dangers, or Conditions
Whether it’s off-leash restrictions at beaches or the risk of snake bites in rural areas, every region in Australia has its quirks. Not being prepared for local conditions can put your dog at risk.
Do your research:
- Check local council websites for leash laws and off-lead areas
- Be aware of ticks, heat, and wildlife risks in national parks
- Always bring waste bags and keep your dog’s behaviour in check
“A friend of mine took her kelpie to a beach up north and didn’t realise it was nesting season for shorebirds. Even though the beach is usually dog friendly, she still got fined and asked to leave,” said Glenn from Hanrob.
Websites like Pet-Friendly Accommodation and state-based pet travel guides are great places to check what’s allowed before you go.
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Assuming You Have to Take Your Dog With You
It’s natural to want your furry companion by your side – but not every trip will suit your dog. If your itinerary includes long days out, events, or locations that aren’t dog-friendly, it may be less stressful for your pet to stay somewhere they’ll be safe, happy, and cared for. That’s where premium pet boarding options like Hanrob Pet Hotels come in. With spacious grassy yards, enriching playtime, loving carers, and even expert dog training, our facilities across Australia are designed to make your dog feel right at home while you’re away.
“Our border collie Rosie stayed at Hanrob while we travelled interstate for a wedding weekend,” says Melbourne client Anna. “I think she had more fun than we did!”
We understand how much you love your pet – we’re pet lovers too – and we’re here to offer a second home when travelling with your dog isn’t the best choice.
Final Thoughts
While travelling with your dog in Australia can be a delightful experience, it’s crucial to avoid these simple mistakes. Whether your dog joins you on the road or enjoys their own little holiday at a trusted pet hotel, the goal is the same: their happiness and safety.
Author Bio
Written by Jake Biggs, part of the Pet Loving Team at Hanrob Pet Hotels
With over 45 years of experience and nine locations across Australia, Hanrob Pet Hotels is trusted by pet parents and recommended by vets nationwide. Learn more about our boarding, dog training, and daycare services at hanrob.com.au.