Jetpets Holidays Blog

Keep up-to-date with the latest Pet Travel and Jetpets Holidays news.

Holidaying with your pet and need a pet sitter?

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When you’re in your own familiar neighborhood, it’s an easy habit to rely on friends or family to mind your pet, or drop your pet at your favorite local boarding kennel.

But what happens when life takes us to new places such as an interstate relocation or a holiday destination that includes your fur-baby. What are your pet sitting options then, when friends or family may not be around the corner and there isn’t a suitable boarding kennel option?

Fortunately, there are more pet care options than ever before for Aussie pet parents, including choosing your own personal sitter through Pawshake.

Pawshake is an online platform connecting pet owners with thousands of local, vetted and insured pet sitters throughout Australia. Pet sitters come from all walks of life including retirees, veterinary nurses, stay-at-home mums and families with kids, but all have one thing in common: an absolute love of dogs, cats and everything in between!

The process is simple: visit the website and pop your suburb into the search bar to browse and contact local sitters. When you hear back from an available sitter, arrange an in-person meet and greet before booking online or via the app. By meeting up first, you can be sure your sitter gets along swimmingly with you and your fur baby.

If you’re lucky enough to be holidaying with your best friend but find yourself organising a day-trip that can’t include your dog, Pawshake can put you in touch with a day-sitter. The solutions are endless, so keep Pawshake in mind for next times you need a helping paw!

Make the Most of the School Holidays!

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Just because it’s winter school holidays doesn’t mean we should be spending time inside! We’re lucky to experience (mostly) sunny winters in Australia so it’s a good idea to remember to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but don’t forget to rug up!

Melbourne – Eastfield Dog Park

Whether you’re a local, or travelling to Melbourne these holidays, make sure you plan to get down to Eastfield Dog Park! The recently opened dog park is fully fenced with double gated entrances, so you don’t have to worry if your pup gets a little bit over-excited! With rock mounds, sand pits and agility equipment, the whole family is bound to have fun. There’s even a quiet zone for less adventurous pups.

Just make sure your pup is up to date with their vaccinations, then you’re good to go!

Sydney – Café Bones & Hawthorne Canal Reserve

If you’d prefer to spend your weekend sipping lattes and admiring nature then you might be due for a trip to Sydney! Café Bones is located right next to Hawthorne Canal Reserve, which makes it a hotspot for trendy pups.

Café Bones only has outdoor seating available, which means you don’t have to worry about your dog’s table manners! Order them a puppachino and dog biscuit as you watch other pups run around the off-lead area at Hawthorne Canal Reserve.

Brisbane – Yatala Drive-in Movies 

Queensland winters means hot days and warm nights, perfect weather to head to the drive-in movies! Located in Brisbane’s southern suburbs, Yatala Drive-in is the perfect way to spend a winter evening with the whole family! Dogs are welcomed as long as they are on a lead at all times, and under full control of their owners. Just make sure you keep the popcorn out of their reach!

What are your favourite winter holiday activities? Make sure to let us know on Instagram using #JetpetsHolidays

5 reasons for taking your pet on holiday with you

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We all know it, that look your pet gives you when you’re about to set off on your holiday without them (those puppy dog eyes make our heart melt). You don’t have to feel guilty about leaving them behind anymore – here’s 5 reasons you should to take them with you!

Don’t have to worry

No matter how much you trust your neighbour, we all still worry about how are pets are doing while we’re away! Wondering whether they’ve been on their daily walk, or if they’re scratching up the couch. It’s only natural to wonder what our pets are getting up to! We’ve got a quick fix for that holiday anxiety – take your pets with you!

Time to explore

Travelling is one of life’s greatest pleasures! Nothing enriches the heart and soul than exploring a new place. That’s why taking your pet on holidays with you is a great idea.

Travelling with your pet gives you a great excuse to get out and explore. Whether you head out to the local park, or hire a car and head to a dog friendly café or beach, we can guarantee that you’ll visit places you wouldn’t have seen otherwise.

Get active

Between trying out local delicacies, and spending time relaxing, sometimes it can be hard to find the motivation to get outside while on a well-deserved holiday. Luckily, travelling with your pets gets you outside and moving!

Not only will you get to see more of the city you’re visiting, exercising on holiday is also extremely beneficial for your pet.

Pet specific activities

There’s no doubt that your pet will have more fun on holiday than they would have at home! Our pets love to explore and experience new places just as much as we do, so try and set aside a day dedicated to them. Whether they love people watching at cafes, or love nothing more than chasing a tennis ball at the park, we know they’d love anything you planned just for them. 

Share your holiday with your best friend

Travelling means you get to explore new places and learn new things, but it’s always better shared! You’re sure to create special memories with your pet by your side, and the cuddles at the end of the day are always an added bonus.

Planning your next vacation? Why not take your best friend with you! At Jetpets we are here to help! Whilst in planning mode, get in contact with a Jetpets Travel Consultant to secure the preferred flight times for your pet. You may wish to be on the same flight as your pet, or have Jetpets transport your pet to the front door of your holiday accommodation? Or you may prefer to consider a Jetpets Holidays package, where our expert travel consultants take care of everything for people and their pets, from booking flights to organising accommodation and transfers.

 

 

Finding the Best Puppychino in Melbourne

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Melbourne is Australia’s home of sport, fashion and most importantly, coffee! Blessed with some of the best cafes in the world, it can be hard to know where to head to grab your smashed avo and morning latte. Never fear, we’ve narrowed it down for you! And we’ve not forgotten your furbaby – here’s some of Melbourne’s best dog-friendly cafes, because what dog doesn’t love a puppychino!

Doghouse 

195 Johnston Street, Collingwood 3066

Doghouse is the place to go if you really want to treat your pup. This Collingwood café is designed to be your dog’s favourite weekend brunch spot. Take a seat outside while your pup socialises with other trendy café-going dogs and waits for their dogachino or turkey and cranberry muffin. They can even grab a scoop of ice cream for dessert!

Doghouse offer coffee and nibbles for humans too, but let’s admit it, it really is all about the dogs!

The Farm Café

18 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford 3067

Located at Collingwood Children’s Farm, The Farm Café is a pleasant change from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s famous café scene. The Farm Café is used to having four-legged friends around, so your furry-best friend is more than welcome. A country escape in the city, relax over brunch while listening to the birds in the trees and the gentle mooing of the cows, while your pup rolls in the grass!

Leroys

5 Mason Street, Newport 3015

We all know that Melbourne’s weather is notoriously unreliable, which is why Leroys indoor-outdoor dining options are perfect for those of us who like to dine with their pets! Leroys welcome furry friends in their undercover outdoor seating areas. With food to die for, delicious coffee, and space for your pup to roam, Leroys is the perfect weekend coffee spot.

Crowded House

8 Ferguson Street, Williamstown 3016

With Insta-worthy food, Crowded House in Williamstown is a café that you and your pup are sure to love. Located a short walk from the bay, Crowded House is a great place to stop and relax after a sunny beach walk.

What’s your pup’s favourite Sunday coffee spot? Share your photos with us on Instagram by tagging us in your snaps @jetpets.

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

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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?

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. 

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

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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!

Image courtesy of Capercaillie Wines
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.

Image courtesy of Capercaillie Wines
Image courtesy of Capercaillie Wines

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

Our favourite places to explore during a trip along the Great Ocean Road

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Whether you’re visiting from out of state, or doing the annual drive to the beach, the Great Ocean Road has many amazing cafes, beaches and walking trails to explore. If you’re planning a trip, then here is a list of our top pet friendly places to stop!

Beagle Puppy Playing
Beaches

Of course, there are almost too many beautiful beaches along the Great Ocean Road to count! Here are a few of our favourite off the lead dog beaches.

Logans Beach located in Warrnambool is a must see if you’re interested in whale watching! Dogs are welcome at Logans Beach off the lead all year long, so if you’re travelling down the Great Ocean Road with your dog then it’s a great place to stop and stretch the legs.

If you’re stopping by Peterborough, then make sure to visit Bay of Islands Costal Park. It’s off lead all year round! Just make sure you have control of your dog at all times.

Take a 40 minute drive down the Great Ocean Road from the Twelve Apostles, and you’ll arrive in Johanna. Johanna Beach welcomes dogs off the lead at anytime, so make sure you bring the SPF and a frisbee!

Cafes

There’s no doubt that Victoria is full of great coffee and great cafes. The Great Ocean road is no exception. If you’re making the treck down the Great Ocean Road, then here are a few local café’s to stop off with your pup.

Swing Bridge Café, 30 Great Ocean Road, Lorne

This seaside beach shack is a great place to stop of for a morning brew with your pup. Grab some St. Ali coffee and enjoy the surroundings with mans-best-friend.

Sticks and Stones, 61 Surfcoast Hwy, Torquay

If you’re looking for a gluten-free-friendly café then make sure to check out Sticks and Stones in the heart of Torquay.

Café Moby, 41 The Esplanade, Torquay

This modern Australian café is a hot spot for dog lovers. Pop in for a coffee after your morning beach walk, and enjoy the view!

Great Ocean Road, Australia. View Overlooking The Pacific Ocean.

Walking trails

If you’re stopping off in Princetown Township, then head to the Serpentine Boardwalk on Old Coach Road East. Dogs are permitted all year round as long as they are on a leash.

The Camperdown to Timboon rail train stretches for 34 kilometers and is located inland off the Great Ocean Road. Whether you’re looking for a hike, or a short stroll, the rail trail is sure to appeal to man and dog! Stop off at the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery for a rest, they provide waterbowls for thirsty pets!

What are your favourite pet friendly stops along the Great Ocean Road? Let us know on Facebook!

 

 

The Best Off The Lead Parks to Visit in Sydney

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Not only does Sydney offer some of the most spectacular tourist attractions, glorious beaches and gorgeous weather, it’s also home to some of the country’s best off the lead dog parks!

If you’re planning on heading to Sydney soon with your pup in tow, then here are some of the best off the lead parks Sydney has to offer!

Centennial Park

Location: Grand Drive and Parkes Drive, Sydney

Off the Lead: Off-lead areas available 24/7

Centennial Park is arguably the best off-lead dog park in Sydney. 158 hectares of the park are designated as off-lead areas, so there’s no doubt that your dog is going to love it.

Sirius Cove

Location: Sirius Cove Rd, Mossman 2088

Off the Lead: All day during the week, before 9am and after 4pm on weekends and public holidays

Sirius Cove is great for both land-loving and beach going dogs. There is shaded grass area for those who would prefer to stay dry, and the beach is open and accessible throughout the week for those who might want to cool off in the sea!

St Ives Showground

Location: 450 Mona Vale Rd, St. Ives, 2075

Off the lead: Off-lead areas available 24/7

St Ives Showground is great for younger dogs that are still being trained, and aren’t confident off the lead yet. The off the lead areas at St Ives are surrounded by fences, so it’s a great spot if you’re a bit worried you don’t have total control of your dog.

Warrigal Run

Location: Doonside Road, Doonside, 2767

Off the lead: 24/7

Warrigal Run is another completely fenced, off the lead dog park! Warrigal Run boasts the largest fenced, off the lead park in Sydney, so this is a good one for those dogs who need to stretch their legs! There are also some great walking paths through the park too.

What are your favourite off the lead parks in Sydney? Let us know on Facebook!

Travellers’ Tails– Sahara’s story

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sahara_langham_g
Travellers’ Tails– Sahara’s story

sahara_langham_lSydney’s Langham Hotel is the height of luxury for humans and their furry friends. Located in the heart of Sydney, the Langham is the perfect getaway for the whole family, conveniently located close to the many attractions that this amazing city has to offer.

At the Langham, rooms are pet friendly, and come with luxury pet bedding, gourmet food and treats! (They do have human perks too like private terraces and luxurious bathrooms.)

Recently, our animal ambassador Sahara was lucky enough to spend a few nights at the Langham in Sydney, and her owner Dave tells us that she had an amazing time!

“When it comes to pet-friendly hotels, it doesn’t get much better than this” Dave says. “We had an amazing time, and Sahara of course, was treated like a princess by the team!”

 

sahara_langham_b

Not only did she enjoy the spectacular views from her private balcony, she was treated to gourmet meals cooked just for her (and delivered to her room,) talk about luxury!

Sahara was truly in pet heaven, relaxing on her own custom-made Langham plush bed (pictured,) before heading out on the town to check out some of Sydney’s best pet-friendly attractions.

At the Langham, pet-sitting and dog walking services are also available on request.

If you would like to know more about the Langham in Sydney, or book in your own pet-friendly vacation at the hotel, click here.

The Best Off the Lead Parks to Visit in Melbourne

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 The Best Off the Lead Parks to Visit in Melbourne

Whether you’re looking for a holiday in the hills, a city escape, or time by the sea, Melbourne pretty much has it all!

If you’re planning a trip to Melbourne and you’re bringing your furry pal along, or if you’re a local looking for a new park to visit, here’s our list of the best off the lead parks in Melbourne!

tricolor cavalier king charles spaniel dog playing and running wBrighton Dog Beach
Location: Seacrombe Grove, Brighton, 3186
Off the Lead: 24/7

It’s time to trade in your traditional walk for one to the dog beach. Brighton Dog beach is designated for dogs all year round, and it is fenced, so you don’t need to worry too much if your dog isn’t the best at recall. Just remember to leash your dogs as soon as you leave the fenced area.

Albert Park
Location: Albert Park, 3260
Off the Lead: 24/7 in permitted off the lead zones, must be on a lead in picnic areas and on walking paths

Albert Park is a must see when visiting Melbourne. This lakeside park has several designated off the lead areas for you and your dog to enjoy. The park is equipped with dog-water taps and doggy-bag stations, (which is great for those days when you run out!)

Citizens Park
Location: Highett St, Richmond, 3121
Off the Lead: welcome at all times with the exception of during sports training and matches

Citizens Park is another great fenced dog park. Dogs are welcome to roam off the lead, as long as they are under effective control by their owners. This park is a local favourite for dog owners all year round. Make sure you do clean up after your dog, and keep an eye on them if they’re prone to digging holes. This park is also utilised as a sporting oval, so best to keep keen diggers on a lead to prevent any issues for those competing at the park.

bigstock--122427173Aranga Reserve
Location: Eastway Avenue, Donvale, 3111
Off the lead: 24/7

If your dog likes adventure, then this is the dog park for you. Also known as the Dog Activity Centre, this dog friendly park is separated into three sections; general activity, training area and dog agility equipment.  Whether your dog prefers casual afternoon strolls, or regimented training games, there is sure to be something at Aranga Reserve for everyone to enjoy!

What are your favourite off the lead parks in Melbourne? Let us know!