Pet-friendly holidays in SA
Posted 14 August, 2019
Clair Morton
You know that sharp pang you feel when dropping your child at the school gate for the first time, or when you leave your partner to go on a work trip?
That’s not far off how pet owners feel when they have to part from their fur babies to go on holiday.
While it might not be realistic to bundle up your coveted corgi for a trip to Cuba, or take your fussy French bulldog to Fiji, there are plenty of holidays your best mate can join in on right here in SA. Stick a little closer to home for an unforgettable trip the whole family will remember for years to come.
Before you head off
Ensuring a smooth ride for you and your furry family member all comes down to preparation.
The first decision you’ll need to make is based on what level of luxury you’re looking for. Finding a pet-friendly place isn’t as difficult as it used to be – there are boutique hotels popping up all over the place that’ll treat both you and your animals.
Discovery Parks across SA are increasingly offering pet-friendly accommodation options, and even
Apollo is on board with allowing pets in its motorhomes.
Before you set off, you’ll just have to make sure your pet is happy with the idea of going on a trip. Are they comfortable and familiar with car travel? Do they get anxious about going to new places? If you’re confident they’ll be okay, you’re good to go.
Pack enough pet food and water for the distance you’re travelling, and don’t forget a collar and bed for your four-legged friend.
Lastly, while not a legal requirement in SA, it’s safest (for everyone in the vehicle) to invest in a pet restraint.
When you first arrive at your animal-friendly destination with a dog, take them for a walk so they can familiarise themselves with their new surroundings. This should help alleviate any stress they might be feeling. Dogs also thrive on routine, so try to keep things as similar as possible why you’re away.
Where can you go?
Camp out under the stars
While most South Australian national parks don’t allow dogs, there are a few exceptions. One of these is Innamincka Regional Reserve in the iconic SA outback. An oasis for stargazers and birdwatchers, life in the tiny outpost town of Innamincka is centred around two watering holes – Cooper Creek, and the Innamincka Hotel. Have a drink and meal outside, with your best friend by your side, before heading off to explore the natural wonders this remote region has to offer. Just make sure your dog is on a lead at all times.
Where to stay: There are plenty of places to set up camp along the banks of Cooper Creek – by doing so, you’ll be following in the footsteps of Australian explorers Burke and Wills, who camped out here in 1860 during their most ill-fated expedition. If you’re roughing it, a gold coin will get you a welcome shower at the toilet block near the trading post and pub.
Take to the water in the Riverland
Houseboats are synonymous with the Riverland, and for good reason – they’re arguably one of the best ways to see the region.
It’s also one experience you don’t have to leave your pup on the shore for.
Take in life at river-pace, and spend your days dropping a line in the Murray, or cruising past the Riverland’s dramatic ochre cliffs, stark white sandbars and river red gum forests. To regain your land legs, travel downstream to Berri and head for the award-winning, off-the-grid Mallee Fowl Restaurant in Monash, which welcomes pets in its laid-back courtyard dining area. If it’s a walk you’re in need of, stroll along the recently revamped Paringa Paddock trail in Renmark.
Where to stay: Wilkadene Above Renmark offers several pet-friendly accommodation choices, including its fleet of houseboats and its cottage. Just take your pick and cruise off into the sunset.
