You’re packed and ready to hit the road. But guess who wants to come on holidays?

More Australians are travelling with their pets, chiefly dogs, and the range of accommodation that will accept them is getting broader. From camping and caravan parks to five-star hotels, canine friends, and felines, are being welcomed.

Before you set off, some preparation is needed. Check the tick situation at your destination and medicate your dog accordingly. Be sure to take some of your dog’s own bedding and toys to make your pet feel at home. And think about adding an extra tag to your dog’s collar, carrying the name and phone number of your accommodation.

Getting to the pet-friendly spot can often be the trickiest part. Here are a few rules of thumb to avoid car trouble:

• Dogs should always travel in the back seat, wearing a car harness that attaches to the seatbelt.
• Make frequent stops (at least every two hours) for exercise, water and toilet breaks. Carry a bowl and clean water for the pit stops.
• Travel sickness can be a problem for some dogs, so have your vet recommend something, just in case.
• Cats are trickier in the car, and on unfamiliar turf, so you might be better advised boarding puss in a cattery.

According to vet Dr Harry Cooper, Asiatic cat breeds, such as Persian and Siamese, travel better than most. Regardless of breed, cats must be kept in a secure basket for the journey. Upon arrival, cats should be locked inside straight away, as they are unlikely to return to the strange surroundings. The term ‘pet-friendly’ can range from tolerance of animals in the grounds but not inside rooms, to five-star luxury.

The Langham, Sydney, has two pet-friendly rooms for any pets less than 20kg. For an extra $70 (per pet per night), the hotel offers a top-tier experience for pets including a room-service menu.

"We can arrange a pet-sitter and have a recommended dog-walking service," says hotel spokesperson Cassandra Martinenko. Call (02) 9256 2222 or go to sydney.langhamhotels.com.au.

To find pet-friendly digs, go to www.doggydossier.com.au, which lists holiday-house rentals, B&Bs and resorts, and www.goseeaustralia.com.au, which lists pet-friendly caravan and tourist parks.