everything about your dogs

Showing posts with label LIFESTYLE. Show all posts
Showing posts with label LIFESTYLE. Show all posts

16 Dog-Friendly Summer Escapes

The Christmas holidays are nearly here! If you're pining for a summer getaway but can't bear to leave your pooch at the local kennel then you need to start planning now to secure pet-friendly accommodation that will meet the whole family's needs!

We teamed up with the specialist team at Holidaying with Dogs to uncover 16 unique properties around Australia who genuinely care for the wellbeing of their canine guests...

NEW SOUTH WALES

#1. HANK'S, Mollymook (NSW)

This popular pet-friendly holiday house is located on the NSW South Coast, a 3 hours' drive from Sydney. With a fully fenced backyard and dog-friendly Mollymook beach just 900 metres away, this is the perfect place for the extended family to come together and relax.

But if the kids can’t leave technology behind, WiFi is available! The house is open plan and split over two levels, with two bedrooms on level one and another two on the ground level to sleep up to eight guests comfortably. 

This property accepts up to 3 dogs (of any size) and yes, they are allowed inside too!

Find out more here...


#2. GRANTHAM HOUSE, Batehaven (NSW)

Grantham House is situated conveniently close to beaches, Batehaven's cafes and shops, and just minutes from Batemans Bay, a 4.5 hours' drive, south of Sydney.

This lovely modern 3 bedroom home (sleeps up to 6 guests) is air conditioned with Foxtel, dishwasher, securely fenced gardens.This property will accept up to 3 dogs (any size) inside and there's a doggy door to access the yard.

This is only one of Batemans Bay Pet holidays four pet friendly holidays homes in this area of the NSW south coast.

Find out more here...

#3. SOLITARY ISLAND VIEWS, Coffs Harbour (NSW)


This large fully self contained one bedroom apartment affords stunning views of the ocean, Solitary Island and beach. Located in the beautiful Sapphire Beach location on the northern resort belt of Coffs Harbour.

There's a large secure covered wrap-around deck which leads down to your own landscaped private yard.Inside you'll find a comfortable king bed and separate bathroom. Kitchen facilities include portable outdoor BBQ, microwave, fridge, hotplates. In the living area enjoy a large screen LCD television and DVD player.

You're within walking distance of two different pet-friendly beaches or restaurants in just minutes. Park Beach Plaza shopping centre is only a 5 minute drive south. This smaller property will accommodate up to 2 dogs maximum.


Find out more here...

QUEENSLAND

#4. SALWATER VILLAS WATERFRONT HOUSE, Mooloolaba (QLD)


Saltwater Villas Waterfront House is a large property which can welcome up to ten guests and they will accept up to three dogs.

You can spread out in this spacious North facing house with 3 separate bedrooms, a large lounge media room and outdoor entertainment area so why not get the whole family or a group of dog loving friends together?


Make sure your dog(s) can swim or pack some life jackets as you will have your own private pool and pontoon. You can easily hire SUP Boards, kayaks or a motorised boat to enjoy an action-packed holiday with your pooch!

Find out more here...



#5. RIVERSIDE COTTAGE, Rockhampton (QLD)

This quaint historic riverfront cottage is only 1km from Rockhampton's City centre and offers gorgeous views of the Fitzroy River with cool river breezes. 


Inside the cottage is air-conditioned and fully furnished.  with TV, DVD player and all amenities. The property will suit up to 3 guests (2 bedrooms) and up to 3 pets are allowed with full access inside.

There is a large fully fenced backyard accessed via large sliding double doors on the back deck. The 1.2 m pool fencing will thwart climbing dogs! There’s room to park your boat, caravan or horse float and there is also a covered carport.

Find out more here...

#6. QUIRKY COLOURFUL HOME, Gold Coast (QLD)

This quirky colourful house on the Gold Coast has a happy tropical feel and is only a 30mn drive away from all the theme parks! You will find a park across the road, an off leash dog park 5 minutes' drive away plus a dog-friendly beach is 10 minutes away.

Pets are welcome inside (up to 2, small/medium size) however must be kept away from furniture and bedrooms. 
The property has a small backyard and a large patio, great for outdoor dining with its Ziegler & Brown BBQ. 
There's air conditioning in the main area and one bedroom, plus a portable air conditioner.
This house is wheelchair accessible and additional special equipment is available upon request.


Find out more here...   

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

#7. BAROSSA VIEWS BED & BREAKFAST, Nuriootpa (SA)

Barossa Views is located in Nuriootpa in the heart of the Barossa Valley wine region. 

This renovated 1950's style farmhouse offers 3 bedrooms, a front lounge with slow combustion heater, large kitchen and separate family dining room. The property has full laundry facilities and is air conditioned for the summer months. 

There is an outdoor dining area including a BBQ, it has fully fenced yards and pets (up to 2 dogs of any size) are permitted indoors in all areas of the house. 


#8. SEAGRASS VILLA, Normanville (SA) 

This property is situated 75km south of Adelaide and only a short drive to touristic sites like Victor Harbor, Wirrina, Rapid Bay, Yankalilla, Second Valley, McLaren Vale etc. or you could catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island as Cape Jervis is not too far away. 


Seagrass Villa was built for romantic or chillout escapes for couples or singles and your furry friends (up to two dogs of any size) are allowed inside to share this upmarket experience with you. 

You can relax at the rear of the property with a deck (with BBQ facilities) overlooking a small garden and spa.

The property is fully fenced so you can take your time to visit the local second hand shops and galleries. Take a stroll on beautiful pristine Normanville Beach and enjoy the taste of local produce at the variety of cafes and restaurants on the main street and on the foreshore.

Find out more here…   


#9. WINDSONG BEACH HOUSE, near Robe (SA)

Just a short drive to Robe and Mt Benson Wineries, WindSong is a private beachfront house with uninterrupted ocean views and direct access (only 50 steps) onto the beach. 

The property consists of acres of sheltered parkland with loads of space for both two- and four-legged guests. Canine visitors (up to 4 of any size) are welcome inside and there's also a fenced shaded doggie deck.

The property is perfect for 4 guests, but can sleep up to 6. Each bedroom offers private bathroom facilities and the huge round spa bath overlooks the private gardens.

There's a dazzling cook's kitchen and a fabulous sun deck with sweeping views of Guichen Bay. The living area looks out to the ocean and towards the seal community on nearby Baudin's Rocks.There is a fabulous orchard on the property and guests are welcome to pick fresh mulberries, figs, plums and apples in season.

Find out more here


#10. RIVERSHACK – Paringa (SA)


Rivershack is located in beautiful garden surroundings on the Murray River in Paringa, only 4 km from Renmark. You’re also close to the famous Woolshed brewery Wilkadene (13 km away), also accessible by boat (bring your own!).

The property has been newly renovated and allows your pets inside (up to 4, any size) and the small yard is fully fenced.

It’s only a short walk down to your very own sandbar and riverbank where you can enjoy boating, canoeing (for hire) or fishing. This is the perfect place for you if you love wildlife (koalas, echidnas, birdlife) and you're happy to cook using BBQ facilities as there’s no oven/stove top.

Find out more here

VICTORIA

#11. SURF PARADE BEACH HOUSE, Inverloch (VIC)

Located directly across the road from a pathway to Inverloch's main surf beach, you’re also within easy reach of Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory


This beautifully furnished home has 3 bedrooms and can comfortably sleep up to 7 people.There’s a large open plan fully equipped kitchen, the living area features linen sofas, a large flat-screen TV with Foxtel, DVD player and stereo system.

Outside you'll find a paved entertaining area with gas BBQ, table, chairs and large umbrella. The garden is fully fenced with a secure front gate and your pets (up to 3 dogs of any size) are also allowed inside. 

Find out more here…  


#12. CAPE COTTAGES SASSY’S DREAM, Skenes Creek (VIC)

Less than 2.5 hr from Melbourne, Sassy's Dream is located in Skenes Creek North, short drive to the Great Otway National Park and is an ideal base to visit the world renowned 12 Apostles. You will also find breweries, wineries and restaurants locally.

This delightfully renovated cottage is nestled in a quiet bush and overlooks landscaped lawns and a pond, giving you the feeling of total privacy. 

This cottage is great for couples wanting an escape to enjoy nature and the outdoors. One small dog is allowed inside and outside the property under supervision at all times. 
On the deck is an outdoor setting, deck chairs and BBQ.

#13. JESMONDENE, Daylesford (VIC)

Jesmondene is a large property, ideally located in the centre of the spa town of Daylesford so you can easily walk to shops and cafes. You’re also within walking distance of a market, Wombat Hills Botanic Gardens, Lake Daylesford (on lead walk area) with many bush walks nearby.

You can certainly spread out with your pack choosing from 2 large living/dining areas, 2 outdoor decks, one affording amazing views over the town. There’s an open fireplace and ducted heating for those cooler nights…

There’s a fully enclosed yard for your dogs to romp around and they’re also allowed inside (up to 4 of any size).


Find out more here...

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

#14. BEACHSIDE PREVELLY VILLAS, Margaret River (WA)

These “holiday homes away from home” are located on the spectacular south west coast of Margaret River, Western Australia close to major attractions like food and wine, fine art/craft galleries, caves, forests and world class surfing!

There is a selection of five separate pet-friendly properties (all are self-contained) which either offer partial views of the ocean or are within easy walk to the local beach.

Each property offers 3 bedrooms (sleeping up to 6 guests) and all come with fully fenced grassed backyards. 

Dogs (up to 2 of any size) are allowed to access all the tiled living areas, and the swimming/dog beaches are just a short walk away. Guests will receive a doggie basket with towel, sheets, poo bags and leads!

Find out more here


#15.  ECO VALLEY RETREAT, Pink Lake (WA)

Eco Valley Retreat is set on seven acres of selectively cleared bushland and offers contemporary, fully self-contained units a world away from the hustle and bustle of life but only moments away from Esperance's pristine beaches and the CBD.

You can choose from two ground-floor studio style units with a queen size bed (2 guests max.) and a fully equipped kitchen.

This is a genuine pet-friendly property as your fur-baby is allowed inside with you and off-leash on the property. They also have secure kennels if you wish to leave them whilst visiting Cape Le Grand National Park

#16. PEPPERMINT TREE LODGE – Peppermint Grove Beach (WA)

Less than 2 ½ hours from Perth you can be relaxing on Peppermint Grove Beach Western Australia, the South West’s undiscovered getaway between Bunbury and Busselton. 
There is a choice of four separate properties ideally suited to large families or groups. 

Horizons is a two story architecturally designed house that is located on absolute beachfront at Peppermint Grove Beach. The panoramic views from the deck stretch from Bunbury in the north to Busselton in the south and west to Bunkers Bay. 

The house will accommodate up to 6 guests and accepts two dogs (of any size) and this property is also fully fenced.

Find out more here… 





Celebrating Halloween Safely with Dogs!

How enjoyable is Halloween night for your dogs is debatable but it's certainly gained in popularity with one in five Australians expected to celebrate this year! 

If you just want a bit of harmless fun, we gathered thirteen of our favourite spooky themed accessories and treats to celebrate Halloween with your pooches!

Some Safety Tips

If you have kids and plan on trick-or-treating that night, beware the candy, sweets and chocolate lying around that could poison your pets! 

If you're having a party at home, this is stressful for your dogs as this interrupts their normal routine and they will prefer staying in their den, located in a quieter part of the house or the backyard... 

Always make sure your dog is wearing an ID tag as someone may forget to close the gate or the front door properly! And if you're into decorating the house, keep all decorations, electrical cords, spider webs and streamers well out of reach from your dogs as these are choking hazards or they may end up with an intestinal blockage.








This is the Halloween edition of the classic ZippyPaws Burrow toy. This model comes with three squeaky characters (or critters) that love to hide inside the burrow and play hide-and-seek with your dog!

Once the toys are placed inside the Haunted House (with Dracula, Ghost and Frankenstein's Monster) or Pumpkin (with 3 Bats), give the burrow a little squeeze to make the toys squeak: this will entice your dogs to pull out their play pals. 

These toys is best suited to small/medium dogs and moderate chewers if the kids don't steal them first!


RRP: $29.95 from www.luckypet.com.au





This Zombie Dog plush toy is cute yet scary and perfect to celebrate Halloween. 

He holds a humorous sign (your dog might not get the joke though..) that will attach to any window, using the suction cups sewn onto its hands.

This high-quality stuffed animal makes the perfect gift for zombie lovers of all ages!


RRP: $19.95 from stockists around Australia 



If your dog enjoys a good game of tug, these Monster Rope Tuggers are a great addition to the toy box just in time for Halloween!

All three characters (Frankenmonster, The Lone Monster and our personal favourite - The Wicked Witch) feature pull-through rope arms and a squeaker inside.

These are small (8.5cm x 12cm x 2.5cm) and not suitable for strong chewers.

RRP: $12.99
from www.thevetshed.com.au


Halloween themed bandanas are perfect for dogs who want to get in on the action but either don't like wearing costumes or it could just be too hot on the day!




These very funky Halloween designs are brought to you by Perth-based 
The Sartorial Dog

Both dog bandanas are reversible and you can choose from either the Haunted House / Eye See You (these glow in the dark!) pairing or the Itsy Bitsy Spiders / Dead Dogs Walking combo!

All dog bandanas are 100% cotton and reversible. They come in a range of five sizes (from XS to XL).


RRP: $12-$20 from The Sartorial Dog Etsy shop





These dog bandanas and bow ties from Dustydog Australia caught our attention with their funky patterns and very reasonable prices. 

Choose from the Spiders Delight Bandana (Spooky Spiders and a maze of cobweb) or the Crazy Pumpkin Bandana. Both designs also come as bow ties, with an easy to use velcro system to attach to your dog’s collar, leash or harness.

Using only 100% cotton fabrics, these accessories are handmade in Victor Harbor (SA). The bandanas will slip over your dog’s collar to be worn at the front, side or back for a different look.

RRP: $9 (bandana) or $15 (bow tie) at www.dustydogaustralia.com.au




This eye catching hybrid h-harness featuring Sugar Skulls is perfect to celebrate Halloween.

Uniquely designed and handmade by The Dizzy Dog Collar Co. (Brisbane), this harness moulds to your dog's chest and is highly adjustable (both at the neck and chest). 
The front is made from a fade proof fast drying neoprene, backed onto a breathable mesh fabric. 

Available in 5 sizes with custom sizing options for the neck, girth and back lengths for a perfect fit.





If your dog is staying around for the party, this outfit is sure to set tongues wagging and is versatile enough to be used for other occasions.

This 'Bad to the Bone' T-Shirt from More than Paws features some essential themes on Halloween night: skull and bones! 

Made from human grade machine washable cotton and polyester mix, this outfit is available in a wide range of sizes to suit small breeds right up to Labradors, German Shepherds but be quick as these are popular for Halloween…

RRP: $26.95 at morethanpaws.com.au






Whether you're into collecting dog costumes, you just like spiders or maybe you want to keep your dog warm, this is the hoodie for your dog on Halloween night!

This Hoodie is made of soft fleece with a fun illustration of a "drunk" spider and its web! This sweater features a hoodie, hook and loop belly closure and there's a convenient leash opening on the back.

Available in 4 sizes (length from 26cm to 45cm). 

RRP: from $19.95 at www.luckypet.com.au







Is your pooch a little naughty? This Little Devil costume featuring a black satin cape with a white and red trim will match his/her personality! 

It comes with a hood complete with eye mask, sparkly red horns and a cute little tail. This is the perfect costume for Halloween, dress ups or just for fun!
Available in 6 sizes to suit Chihuahuas up to large Staffies, small German Shepherds.

RRP: from $31.50 at www.pittapattaboutique.com.au





Even the pooch with the sunniest disposition can turn into Dogzilla for one night or the pet parade at your local Dog Day Out...

Made from green stretch jersey, this costumes comes with padded tail, felt spots, spikes and teeth! 

Both the neck and hood have an elastic trimming for a snug fit. Available in 12 sizes (from 15cm-70+cm), this outfit can be made to order in other colours - simply email your idea ...

RRP: from $45 at www.fluppies.com.au





Your dogs can also celebrate the spooky Halloween festive season with some Creepy Cookies from Huds and Toke.

Made in Australia, these unique products are handmade and designed specifically for animals.
These crunchy pet treats are made with a base of peanut butter and other delicious ingredients. 

They are low in fat, have no added sugar and are guaranteed to have a no melt frosting. Best suited to small to medium sized dogs.

RRP: $8.99 (pack of 3) from stockists around Australia





Aussie Doggie Bag have created these spooky limited edition boxes of Halloween organic dog treats.

Included is a pack of Spooky Pumpkin dog biscuits, your choice of one of their Monster Meat Feasts creations: free range chicken based jerky / Kangaroo or grass fed beef base / Kangaroo. Halloween would not be complete without a horrifyingly good Ghoulie Garden dinner topper (packed with vegetables). Who said celebrating Halloween could not be healthy?

RRP: $25.00 from aussiedoggiebag.com.au






If you're after something more substantial for your pooch's dinner, why not order some Pumpkin Pie to get them into the festive spirit! 

However, this Special from Sassy Treats is a little "tricky" as it's actually made with sweet potatoes and not pumpkin! This super healthy meal also includes lean beef, borlotti beans, kidney beans, quinoa, mung dahl, split peas, lentils, fresh carrots and kelp and more!

RRP: from $7 (250g) or $14 (600g) at www.sassytreats.com.au