We all wish we could take our pets on holiday with us but sometimes it’s just not realistic. With more than eight million households owning a pet, many dog owners will tell you there's nothing sadder than the eyes that follow you out the door when you're leaving them behind.

Michelle Weston, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland General Manager, said a caravan or camping holiday is the perfect option for those wanting to holiday with their pets.

"For some travellers bringing their pet on holiday can be as important as bringing their children and many Queensland caravan parks have recognised this, going the extra mile to let your pet have a fun holiday alongside you,” Ms Weston said.

“Whether it’s pet-friendly camping sites, dog off-leash areas, agility courses or pet wash facilities, caravanning and camping is going barking mad for pet-friendly holiday-makers.”

Planning on packing the food bowls and doggy treats when you hit the road? Caravanning Queensland has compiled a list of some great pet-friendly holiday destinations that will see you and your pet having a woof of a time.

GOONDIWINDI’S COUNTRY HOSPITALITY

Whether you want to enjoy a fish on the banks of the Macintyre River, explore the country landscape and heritage buildings or soak up the good ole’ country hospitality, Goondiwindi is a fantastic Outback destination for you and your pets.

At Goondiwindi Holiday Park they welcome pets with open arms and even encourage holiday-makers to bring them! Be it of the furry or feathered variety, the park understands pets are an important member of the family and they want to make your and your pet’s stay as fun and comfortable as possible.

There’s no additional cost for staying with your pet and there’s plenty to do nearby to keep you both occupied including tourist attractions, cafes and walking or bike tracks.

NATURE’S WAY AT AIRLIE COVE

Tucked away in a tropical haven moments from Airlie Beach, you and your pet will be able to escape and relax in the peaceful Airlie Cove Resort and Caravan Park.

With a dedicated walking area, a mobile dog wash on speed dial and a long list of local pet-sitters at hand to pet-sit if you want to explore the gorgeous Whitsunday Coast, Airlie Cove has got all your and your pet’s needs covered. Dogs are even allowed to stay in the cabins, just don’t let them jump on the furniture and you’ll have the paw-fect holiday.

BRING GROMET ALONG TO WALLACE MOTEL AND CARAVAN PARK

Maryborough is steeped in history with its original wharf now considered a ‘must do’ Queensland experience, being the birthplace of the creator of Mary Poppins and the famous weekly markets that see the city centre transform into a bustling outdoor marketplace.

Often frequented by owners of dogs who compete in Obedience, Performance and Grooming competitions in the region, the Wallace Caravan Park know how important your pets are and try to make their experience, as well as yours, as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.

With a range of pet friendly accommodation options including a number of pet friendly cabins as well as a large off-leash area for your dog to exercise and play, pets are considered as the new normal and you won’t be short of dog-friendly activities in town.

GOLDEN BEACHES AT GOLD COAST HOLIDAY PARK

The Gold Coast is known for its dog friendly beaches including The Spit, Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creek so taking your pet on a Gold Coast holiday makes sense.

Gold Coast Holiday Park is the ultimate holiday stay for you and your pet. All caravan and camping sites are dog friendly as well as a number of dog friendly cabins and there’s even a dedicated off leash park with plenty of room for puppy socialising and exercise as well as its very own dog wash on site, meaning your pup can be pampered too.

Remember, when holidaying with your pets that they need to be fully vaccinated, you must clean up after them and, unless otherwise signed, they should be kept on a leash at all times. Not a hard price to pay for the pleasure of a holiday the whole family, including your fur baby, can enjoy.