Enjoying summer with your dog: Where to go and where not to go!

Australia’s summer is all about sunshine, the outdoors, and making memories with your furry best mate. If you’re planning an adventure with your dog, it’s important to know that while many national parks are breathtaking, they do have restrictions on pets. But don’t worry—there are plenty of gorgeous, dog-friendly spots where you and your pup can make the most of the season.

Why aren’t dogs allowed in national parks?

Australia’s national parks, like the Blue Mountains and Kakadu, are home to unique and often endangered wildlife. Here’s why national parks don’t allow dogs:

• Protecting wildlife: Australia’s unique wildlife, like kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas, are easily startled by the presence of dogs—even the friendliest pups can cause them stress. These animals might see your dog as a predator, which can disrupt their natural behavior or even put them in danger. Keeping dogs out of national parks helps protect these incredible species.

• Dog safety: National parks are home to some wild and rugged creatures like snakes and goannas. While it might seem like an exciting adventure for your dog, curious pups could end up in a risky situation. Not to mention, some areas have thorny plants or other hazards that could harm your dog’s paws. Keeping them safe is always the priority!

• Preserving natural habitats: National parks are all about keeping nature as pure as possible. Dog waste, even when cleaned up, can introduce bacteria and disrupt fragile ecosystems. It’s important to keep our national parks pristine for future generations to enjoy.

While these rules might sound limiting at first, don’t worry—there are heaps of other amazing places where you and your furry friend can dive into nature and have a blast together!

Where to go instead of national parks

With national parks off-limits, there's still plenty of dog-friendly options, from beaches to forests. Here's some ideas to inspire your next adventure:

• State forests and reserves: Many state forests, such as Victoria’s Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, allow dogs on a leash. They’re a fantastic alternative with fewer restrictions.

• Dog beaches: Australia has countless beaches open to dogs. In Queensland, Tallebudgera Dog Beach is a great option, while in Sydney, you can head to Sirius Cove or Greenhills Beach.

• Local parks and walks: Urban parks like Sydney’s Centennial Parklands or Perth’s Kings Park are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic with your dog.

How to check if your destination is dog-friendly

It's always a good idea to check your destination is dog-friendly before you hit the road with your pup. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to do this:

• Check official websites: Each state has a parks website that shows where the protected areas are. Some of these sites also share info on dog-friendly walking trails outside national parks!

• Use Google Maps and apps: Pop your destination into Google Maps to check it's not part of a national park. You can also try apps like PetCloud to find pet-friendly spots.

• Explore dog-friendly travel sites: Websites like Take Your Pet or Holidaying with Dogs are loaded with guides to dog-friendly destinations across Australia. They make planning your trip a breeze!

Even though national parks aren’t accessible for dogs, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a hike through a forest, the Aussie outdoors has plenty to offer for both you and your four-legged friend. Just remember to pack plenty of water, bring sun protection for you and your dog, and get ready for a fun-filled adventure. Happy exploring!