Pets on holiday

Many people take their dogs on holidays, and more would do so if there were more hotel managers like the following. He sent this reply to would-be residents who ask if they can bring the dog:

"I have never had a dog in my hotel that burnt the sheets whilst smoking in bed. Neither has a dog taken away ashtrays or knives as souvenirs. Also there has been no report of dogs using the face towels to clean their shoes or trying to kiss the maids. I have never received a complaint from a dog about the service or food. In short, I have no objections against dogs at all; they are very welcome at my hotel, and if your dog will vouch for you, dear sir or madam, you too will be made most welcome."

When you have read through the last two articles on pets, we would like to reiterate that your well-behaved pet is welcome.

I truly love animals. We have very many wild native birds, with up to 5 varieties of parrots and lorikeets alone – feeding and living here. There is also a great diversity of colourful bantams and guinea fowl.

All of these are TAME, because they are well treated. Even little children (boys?!) don’t chase them, after a patient explanation that these creatures are tame BECAUSE they are not chased but made welcome.

YOUR pet would, just by going to their feeding-stations, make a whole block of birds (for instance galahs) take off in fright – and of course your CAT would think it is Pussy Heaven. Paradise would be shattered.

We therefore extend our hospitality totally inside your holiday home. Do as you wish with your pet (just clean up after). Outside, dogs must be on a leash (there is also room where he or she can be tied up comfortably). There are long and glorious beaches for your dog to run on and enjoy his holiday with you.

There are ticks in Mallacoota, but the best protection you can give your dog is to use Gamma Wash (or similar) before leaving home. This will also ensure that your dog will continue the tradition of flea free dogs in the flats.

Cats, unfortunately MUST be kept indoors at all times, or come out on a lead. No taboos, of course, about dreaming on the window about delicious Wonga Pigeon or King Parrot pie!

There are excellent kennels at Genoa, on the way up here. Mallacoota locals take their pets there, and apparently the dogs go willingly, even after a few visits! That way you can travel up with your friend and pick him/her up on the way home, without having to go out of your way. They are the Genoa Boarding Kennels, telephone (03) 5158 8278.

Love Peter

Adobe (Mudbrick) Flats
PO Mallacoota, Vic, 3892
Telephone: (03) 5158 0329

Dogs into National Parks don’t go
Parks Victoria

Rangers are often asked if dogs may be taken into National Parks.

And dog owners are understandably disappointed when the answer is NO. Cats and other pets are not permitted either.

Why aren’t dogs – even quiet, well-behaved ones – allowed in National Parks?

First and foremost, National Parks have been established to protect Australia’s’ wildlife … which in many cases is threatened. With the possible exception of dingoes, dogs are not indigenous to Australia, and our wildlife is not adapted to living with them. Smaller animals can be killed, large ones disturbed and frightened away.
Even if your dog is on a lead or is very obedient, its barking or its scent is enough to disturb native animals and scare them away. Remember that many people go to National Parks specially to see native animals in their natural habitats.
Dogs can be a nuisance or even a menace to people in picnic areas, on beaches or along walking tacks. And their toilet habits can be offensive.
A rule allowing some dogs (‘quiet’ ones) into National Parks and excluding others would be unworkable.

Parks Victoria
Victoria East
PO Box 179
Mallacoota Vic 3892
Telephone: (03) 5158 0219
Facsimile: (03) 5158 0583.

And OUR motto at the ADOBE VILLAGE:

PETS CAN COME INSIDE WITH THEIR MUM AND DAD!!!!!!

Pets at the Adobe Flats