Let’s Get Physical! ‘Doga’ And Other Pet-Friendly Exercise Ideas

Here at Jetpets, we love keeping up with the latest pet trends! This month, we’re looking at some great pet-friendly exercise ideas.

Are you heading away with your pet in the near future? Whether you’re travelling around, or taking a much-deserved vacation with your pet in tow – it’s always a great idea to stay active whilst away. Keeping your dog active whilst you’re out of your normal routine will help to make sure they’re comfortable in their new surrounds, and it will make you feel energised too! So what are some great pet-friendly exercise ideas to try out next time you’re away?

Pet Friendly Exercises | Pet Tips | Helpful Hints | Jetpets | Pet Movers

Doga

Yep, you heard us right, Doga! Think yoga, but you get to hang out with man’s best friend at the same time! Yoga is a great way to relax, de-stress and strengthen – and it does all this for your dog too! Doga is all about connecting and relaxing with your dog, and helping you work together as one. Try starting off with downward facing dog every morning with your dog!

Many Doga classes ask humans to stroke and massage their dogs, breathe with them and sometimes perform some light stretching. Other classes simply involve the dogs being there, present alongside other dogs and humans in a calm, friendly setting.

But you don’t need to head off to a Doga class to get involved. Why not simply try starting off with downward facing dog every morning with your dog!

Hikes

When travelling with your pets, forming a holiday routine is of paramount importance to maintain their energy, their diet and keeping them happy. If you normally go for a daily walk, or a weekly hike, then try and keep this routine going while on holiday. Going on hikes is also one of the best ways to experience a new place!

Stair running

Stair runs are a great way to get a cardio workout in for you and your pet whilst on holidays! Head down to the local park, and see what type of stairs, or inclines you can find. Changing it up between steep, short stairs, and longer stairs will ensure that you get a full body work out. Try changing up the pace to keep your pup engaged!

Agility Training

Agility training is a great way to get your dog’s brain working, as well as getting their daily cardio in! Of course, you may not always have access to an agility track, otherwise why not make your own! Position sticks for your dog to jump over, get them to jump up onto park benches, and run around trees. You’re both sure to work up a sweat! 

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way for you to bond with your pup! Not only does it take core strength, it also takes quite a lot of cooperation between you and your pet. Here’s a few steps to help you and your pup become SUP pros:

  1. Bring treats with you to the beach!
  2. Help your dog feel comfortable around the board and paddle first. Use treats to reward them for sitting near, or on the board
  3. When they’re comfortable, float the board in the water with your pup on it, remember to reward them for all good behaviour!
  4. Sit on the board with your pup and float around, so they can find their balance with you on the board too!
  5. You’re ready to go! Remember to start slow, and reward your pup as you go.

No matter your dog’s skill level, it’s always a great idea to hire them a doggy-life jacket, just to be safe. 

Pet Friendly Exercises | Pet Tips | Helpful Hints | Jetpets | Pet Movers

How do you and your pet stay active whilst travelling? Let us know your best tips on our Facebook page.

The Best Pet Friendly Wineries to Visit in the Yarra Valley and Hunter Valley

Here in Australia, we’re lucky to have beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and amazing wineries! And now there’s no need to leave your furry friend behind when you’re out exploring, because we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog friendly wineries in the Yarra Valley and the Hunter Valley!

Pet Friendly Wineries | Pets | Travel | Pet Adventures | Cheapest Pet Transport Australia
Image courtesy of Capercaillie Wines

Victoria’s beautiful Yarra Valley is packed full with trendy wineries, restaurants, and cafes. Why not take a day trip, or even spend the night with your pup and soak in the relaxed vibes. Here are a few of our favourite Yarra Valley wineries.

Hanrahan Winery – Yarra Valley

3 Hexham Road, Gruyere, Victoria, 3770

Family owned and operated, Hanrahan Winery is a must see when visiting the Yarra Valley. Hosts Bev and her beloved dog Otis will walk you through their beautiful grounds and teach you everything there is to know about winemaking.

Hanrahan Winery welcome owners and their pets all year round. Dogs must be on a lead at all times, and under effective control by their owners. Hanrahan will offer a water bowl to owners who decide to bring their dog along.

Rochford Wines – Yarra Valley

878-880 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream, Victoria 3770

As a regular fixture on the popular Day on the Green festival, Rochford Wines is a hot spot for most locals. Whether you want to visit for some lunch at their café, or book in for a tour, you’re sure to be spoilt with the views of the Great Dividing Ranges.

You’re more than welcome to bring along your dog and take a walk through the vines, then relax in their large outdoor seating area where you can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine in the sun.


Only a 45 minute drive inland from Newcastle, the Hunter Valley is a must see when visiting the east coast. With world-renowned wineries, the Hunter Valley is the perfect place for a city escape.

Hungerford Hill – Hunter Valley

2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320

Open since 1967, Hungford Hill is one of the best renowned wineries in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley region. With a sculpture yard, espresso bar, and epic tasting experiences, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

While you’re wine tasting, your dog will be offered a bowl of water which they’re sure to enjoy after exploring the winery all day!

Capercaillie Wines – Hunter Valley

4 Londons Rd, Loveldale, NSW, 2325 

Capercaillie Wines is located in Loveldale, the centre of the Hunter Valley. This award winning winery boasts some of Australia’s best wine and is a great place to sit back and relax with friends and family. Capercaillie Wines welcome pet owners to bring their furry friend into the winery to the bar or they can sit outside and enjoy a tasting overlooking the dam, where there is plenty of room for dogs to run around.

Pet Friendly Wineries | Pets | Travel | Pet Adventures | Cheapest Pet Transport Australia
Image courtesy of Capercaillie Wines

What’s your favourite winery to visit with your dog? Let us know on Facebook.

Travelling Internationally with your pet – Frequently Asked Questions

It’s an exciting time in your household as the whole family is getting ready for a big overseas trip!

In need of a few handy hints to get prepared? We get the low-down from one of Jetpets Resident Vets Katherine.

Frequently Asked Questions | Jetpets | International Pet Transport | Pet Carrier

Q: What top tips would you give to pet owners preparing their pets for a long haul flight?

A: We always recommend pet owners start the process of familiarising their pets with the travel crate early (you can find some handy hints on how to do this here.) Other things you can do to help include taking them on lots of car journeys in the travel crate so they get used to the crate and the movement, remain calm around them on the day of departure (we know it’s hard!) and add a recently worn old T shirt to the travel crate so they have the owners scent to calm them on the flight.

Q: Will my pet be fed before they fly?

A: We do not recommend feeding your pet within 8 hours of their flight as it may cause travel sickness. They will receive plenty of water throughout their journey.

Q: Will my pet get a chance to stretch their legs before they fly?

A: Yes, if you have a dog, our team ensure your pet is taken for a good walk before they fly. They will also relax in the Jetpets Transit Lounge before their flight, where they can walk around.

Cats will have the opportunity to stretch their legs in the Jetpets Transit Lounge before their flight.

Q: Why do pets have to be at the airport 3 hours before departure?

Like humans, pets are required to check in early for their flight too. The airlines require pets to be checked in 3 hours before international departure.

Q: Who loads them onto the plane?

After we check your pet in for their flight, the friendly airline staff will load them onto the plane.

Q: Where will my pet sit on the plane?

Your pet will travel in the pet’s cabin. The pets cabin is air pressured, climate controlled and dimly lit. Your pets will experience the same sounds and feelings as us, except they have a lot more leg room!

Q: Do pets get jet lag Katherine?

A: Just like humans, it’s possible that pets may also experience jet lag to a lesser extent. I’ve had the odd person tell me they think their pet had jet lag for a few days after their flight. Older pets in particular might take a bit longer to get used to their new time zone after a long flight.

Q: Do pets having any issues with a sudden change in climate?

If your pets are travelling from a hot to a very cold climate I would make sure they are kept inside or at least make sure they have a good warm coat to put on when they do go outside. If they are travelling from a cold to a hot climate, only walk them early in the morning or late in the evening and make sure they always have plenty of water and shade available (or keep them in the air-con).

Frequently Asked Questions | Jetpets | International Pet Transport | Pet Carrier

Our Resident Vets are experts in pet travel, and are the best people to speak to if you have any health concerns about your pet. They can provide pet travel advice to customers worldwide, so if you’re planning a global move in the near future, get in contact with our team today.

Dave’s New Puppy Jet

We’re just in love with Dave’s new puppy Jet (who was actually named after us, what an honour!)

You might know Dave as one of our amazing pet handlers, and the owner of our animal ambassador Sahara. Well now Sahara and the rest of Dave’s crew have a new brother courtesy of the wonderful team at Australian Working Dog Rescue!

We couldn’t be happier for Dave and we can’t wait to hear how little Jet settles into his new life.

Meet Dave’s New Puppy Jet - Jetpets Pet Transport

An A List Move!

Today we have another exciting move to share with you!

Our team recently had the pleasure of transporting Orlando Bloom’s new pup Junior, a male Sarplaninac, from Melbourne to his home in Los Angeles!

Junior was a surprise for Orlando’s son Flynn, with our pet handler Mike delivering the pup to their front door (and witnessing Junior meeting his new family for the very first time.) What an amazing surprise – we can’t wait to hear how Junior settles into his new home with Orlando and Flynn!

An A List Move! Celebrity Pet Transport with Jetpets

Making the Big Move Overseas

Have you just made the decision to move overseas? There is no doubt a lot to organise, without even thinking about how you can take your pet or pets along with you. But, at a time when everything in your life might be changing, having your furry friends with you will help you settle into your new home a lot quicker.

Here at Jetpets, we have the expertise to ensure your pet is transported safely and comfortably, either domestically or across the globe. Our Pet Travel Consultants can guide you through the entire process, and put your mind at ease.

Can we help you with an overseas move? Contact us today to get the process started.

What happens when your pet travels on an aircraft?

  • The captain of the aircraft is aware that your loved one is on board their flight
  • The captain will set the temperature to approx. 18 degrees celsius so that they are comfortable
  • The pets cabin is dimly lit so that your loved one can see what is going on around them
  • What we feel and hear in the cabin of the plane is the same as what your pet will experience (except in a travel crate they have much more leg room than us!)

Watch How It Works… 

Puppy Love – Animals That Partner For Life

Just like us humans, there are many animal species around the world that also dream about finding their one true love and life partner.

From swans, to turtle doves, wolves and even some types of fish… find out which animals are embracing monogamy below. We guarantee it will make you say awww!

Animals that mate for life:

Puppy Love – Animals That Partner For Life - Jetpets animal transportSwans: 

Swans have quickly become a universal symbol of love, with the famous image of two swans intertwining their necks together representative of this bird’s quest for love and lifelong companionship.

French angelfish:

French angelfish are rarely seen alone and always travel in pairs. They are extremely loyal and protective of their partners, with this bond often lasting their entire lifespan.

Wolves:

Often depicted as scary or violent creatures in movies and books, these animals actually value family life above everything, usually carrying out their lives travelling in packs consisting of a male, female and their young.

Albatrosses:

While these birds travel long distances throughout their life, no matter where they go they always return to their one partner to breed. The partnership between a male and female Albatross takes several years to develop and is cemented by a cute dance ritual.

Turtle Doves:

Turtle Doves have long been written about in literature, including a poem by Shakespeare and the well-known Christmas song ’12 Days of Christmas’ due to the love and faithfulness they have for their partner. The doves usually have two offspring together and both the male and female raise the young doves together.

Dusky Turtle Dove Kiss - Jetpets animal transport

Black Vultures:

These fierce looking creatures are yet another breed who mate for life and will even defend their partner if another bird is seen flirting with them! Both partners protect and raise their children, not dissimilar to a traditional human family unit. 

Prairie Voles:

Prairie voles have been studied extensively and have been found to be one of the most monogamist species ever. They typically find their mate and parent their offspring together and are often seen grooming and cuddling with one another. Their loyalty is so strong in fact that less than 20% of these creatures will find a new their mate dies.

Valentine’s Day & Your Pets

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and we are planning ahead with some easy date ideas that include your pets!  Bringing your pet along is a great way for you and your date to bond, create conversation, encourage playfulness and of course try something new!

Need some ideas on where to go? Read on below for some great date ideas that include both your date and your favourite furry friend!

Valentine’s Day & Your Pets - Jetpets animal transport

Have a picnic:

If you’re lucky enough to be enjoying the warmer weather, take advantage and have a picnic date night. Bring a rug, head to your local park, gardens or a gorgeous lookout, pack a tasty dinner and some bubbly and let your pooch run around (supervised of course) while you relax and enjoy the serenity.

Organise a puppy play date:

There’s no better way to bond with your date than by organising a puppy play date so everyone can have a little fun! It gives you something to talk about, will instantly relax you and not to mention your pets will enjoy having a playmate too! A puppy play date can be anywhere that’s convenient, from a house, to a park to a great walking track.

Enjoy a local hotspot:

Why not be a tourist in your local area? Each city around the world has some great pet friendly hotspots, from walking through the breathtaking Versailles Park in Paris, to heading to the Original Dog Beach in America’s San Diego, or taking in the breathtaking Antoni Gaudí’s Park Guell in Barcelona. Just make sure you Google the location in advance to ensure the attraction is pet friendly and bring a camera so you can take some great pictures of you, your date and your pet!

Head to the beach:

Dogs love beaches, so why not take them to your favourite beach while you have a romantic stroll along the sand? It’s great to do this early in the morning or as the sun is setting for a beautiful view. You could even go in the water with your pets (and your date!)

Go camping:

Have a few days off? Why not head to your local campsite and go camping. Pitch a tent, bring some sleeping bags and light a fire while you get back to nature. (Just make sure you check the local fire restrictions in your area first.) Your pet will also love exploring the local surroundings and sniffing new spots!

Valentine’s Day & Your Pets - Jetpets animal transport

What are your favourite date night activities that include your pets?

Let us know on Facebook!

How to keep your pets healthy and happy over the warmer months

It is no secret that the heat and humidity in summer can be uncomfortable for our pets, so it is important to follow some key pointers to make sure they stay cool, hydrated and safe throughout the warmer months.

Read on for our top tips for keeping your pets healthy and happy in summer.

Dogs Digging A Hole - How to keep your pets healthy and happy over the warmer months

Keep your pets cool and provide plenty of shade:

Staying cool in summer may seem like a no-brainer for us humans, but sometimes we forget about how the heat may affect our favourite furry friends as well. That’s why this summer make sure your pets stay cool and have access to plenty of shade throughout the day and night. If you are working during the day or if you have to leave your pets alone for a period of time, ensure all pets have access to cool and covered areas in the backyard or inside your house with plenty of water. If you own chickens, a good idea is to wet down their chicken run as chickens stay much cooler when they can sit on the wet ground.

If it’s going to be a sweltering day, it’s best to keep all pets indoors on cool tiled floors and if possible with the air-conditioner left on. Make sure there is enough water available and you can even add ice blocks to their water bowl to make it nice and refreshing.

Don’t leave them in the car:

Leaving our pets in the car during summer can cause them to overheat and become dehydrated. This is true even if the air-conditioning is left on so it’s best to avoid taking them in the car if possible. If you need to take them in the car, don’t leave them unattended and always bring a big supply of water.

Go for swim:

There is nothing that cools pets down more than a swim! If you have a dog, let him or her swim in your pool, at a dog-friendly beach or even down by a local lake or river. This is a great way to encourage them to exercise and stay cool at the same time!

Be wary of hot footpaths:

While it’s still just as important to walk your pets during the summer months, you need to be wary of footpaths, bricks or pebbles which can burn the paws of your pet’s feet. To avoid this, stick to ovals or parks and ensure you always exercise your pets early in the morning or late at night when the sun isn’t as strong.

Watch for signs of dehydration:

It’s always a good idea to know the signs of dehydration and to watch for them during the warmer months so you can spot the signs early on and help your pet. Common telltale signs of an overheated or dehydrated dog is that it will drool excessively, become lethargic and its eyes will be bloodshot. For cats, look for a refusal to eat, dry and tacky gums, or skin that falls slowly back to the body when pinched. If you think your pet may be unwell, please consult your Vet for further advice.


What’s your favourite way to spend a summer’s day with your pet? Let us know on Facebook.