On a recent campervan trip to Western Australia and back with my dog, I was surprised and impressed to see so many dogs travelling with their families, most in caravans and campervans and the occasional tent campers.
Throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia nearly all camping sites that provide power, water and bathroom amenities allow dogs.
The exception are those sites within or close to national parks, where pets are not allowed.
Even more surprising was that some people had two or three dogs.
There appeared to be as many large and medium sized dogs as small ones.
Campers are sometimes required to sign a document stating that the dog is vaccinated, under control and will always be on lead.
Most dogs were well behaved and reasonably quiet.
Sometimes there were more people with dogs than without.
Our only scary experience was when a chihuahua cross bred dog broke away from being walked by its owner and raced towards me and my 42kg dog growling and baring its teeth, snapping at my dog’s legs.
The onlookers were amused, so was I while my dog towered over the chihuahua looking intimidated.
Lucky there were only threats and no bites.
Most dogs are either tethered to a back-tie, resting on their beds outside the vans or within small, erected runs and inside at night.
In some more remote areas, dogs are not to be left alone or unsupervised because of the local dingoes who may attack pet animals, but they are wary of humans.
Preparing and teaching your dog for a proposed trip can make it a lot smoother and easier on yourself and the dog if you go through and repeat some basic required behaviours.
Like teaching the dog to relax on a dog bed with a back-tie within sight of his owner and without visual contact and being quiet when asked.
Feed and sleep in the van at home before a trip is ideal.
There were times I back tied my dog inside the shower area while I showered.
Not many dogs like long bumpy road trips, and regular short stops and walks is recommended, if possible.
