Travelling across Australia’s stunning landscapes in a caravan is a quintessential experience for many Australians, offering the freedom to explore the country’s natural beauty at your own pace.
For pet owners, this nomadic lifestyle is even more appealing, as it allows them to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.
However, ensuring the comfort and safety of pets on the road can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to managing their behaviour in unfamiliar environments.
Many caravan parks and campgrounds have become increasingly pet-friendly, offering amenities such as off-leash areas and dog baths.
Despite these conveniences, pet owners must remain vigilant to ensure their pets are not a nuisance to others or put themselves in harm’s way.
Nadia Crighton, a spokesperson from Pet Insurance Australia, advises pet owners to keep their dogs on a leash or within a secure area at their campsite to prevent them from wandering off and encountering potential dangers like wildlife or unfamiliar terrain.
Preparing your pet for life on the road is also crucial.
‘Familiarise your pet with the caravan or tent before the trip. This helps reduce anxiety and makes them more comfortable with their temporary home away from home,’ Crighton suggests.
Anxiety in pets can lead to excessive barking or overexcitement, which can be disruptive in close quarters like caravan parks.
The simple hack helps keep pets calm and happy. Image source: Hel’ on wheels Facebook group
One innovative couple found themselves facing this very issue and shared their clever solution in a Facebook group, much to the delight of fellow caravanners.
To prevent their dogs from barking at others and to protect them from the elements, they lined Kmart dog fence panels with Corflute, a lightweight corrugated plastic sheet available from Bunnings for as little as $6.
They siliconed the Corflute onto the panels, leaving spaces for the dogs to see their owners. This simple yet effective hack not only keeps the dogs calm but also shows consideration for fellow travellers.
‘It’s working a treat.’ says the couple in a Facebook group post.
The response from the caravanning community was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the idea’s ingenuity and thoughtfulness.
One commenter said, ‘Great to see you being so considerate of other people.’ ‘This is the best idea I have seen for a while!’ another one echoed.
The Kmart 8-panel pet enclosure, which retails for $29, was also lauded for its effectiveness in creating a pet boundary around the caravan.
Beyond physical barriers, Crighton emphasises the importance of keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date and protecting them against parasites.
She also recommends having a pet first-aid kit on hand and being aware of local veterinary services, including emergency contacts.
Ensuring your pet’s microchip and registration information are current is another essential step before hitting the road.
This $6 hack from Bunnings, when combined with the Kmart pet enclosure, exemplifies the resourcefulness and camaraderie within the caravanning community.
It’s a testament to the lengths pet owners will go to ensure their four-legged friends are as comfortable and safe as they are while exploring the great outdoors.
We’re always on the lookout for clever tips and tricks that make life easier and more enjoyable. Have you discovered any ingenious solutions for travelling with pets or encountered any other caravan-related challenges?
Also read: Keep your fridge steady with this clever caravan hack
