In recent years, Australia has witnessed a sharp rise in the number of luxury hotels rolling out the red carpet—not just for humans, but for pets too. From personalised pet menus to plush dog beds and concierge services for cats, luxury pet-friendly hotels are making headlines.
While this trend reflects our growing love for furry companions, public sector and government travellers need to tread carefully. Booking these premium pet stays on public funds could land you in hot water—both financially and reputationally.
A Caution for Public Sector and Government Travellers
While many Australians book pet-friendly holidays privately, public sector employees and politicians must take extra care when choosing accommodations during official travel.
A May 2025 ABC News investigation revealed public backlash after a high-profile official stayed in a five-star VIP pet hotel—with taxpayer funds footing the bill. The incident sparked criticism over inappropriate use of public money, especially since the government’s standard overnight travel allowance is typically capped around $181.
Why It Matters:
- Overspending attracts media attention: High-end bookings—particularly those including pet services—can raise eyebrows in public reporting.
- Audit risks: Travel expenses exceeding guidelines can trigger compliance issues.
- Reputational damage: The optics of spending lavishly while representing the public interest can lead to loss of public trust.
Even if a hotel is technically “pet-friendly,” choosing one that exceeds government rates can become a public liability.
Travel Smarter with Your Pet
If you’re planning travel with your pet on a government or corporate budget, here’s how to stay compliant and stress-free:
1. Avoid luxury hotels with premium pet add-ons
Stick to accommodations that fall within daily rate limits and clearly justify their value. PetCloud offers affordable alternatives that won’t appear on a front-page news story.
2. Book local pet care instead of luxury hotel stays
Use PetCloud’s platform to book police-checked pet sitters in your destination. This reduces costs and keeps your travel compliant.
3. Document your choices
If pet travel is essential, clearly document why the accommodation was selected and ensure it aligns with policy guidelines.
PetCloud: A Trusted, Cost-Effective Alternative
For pet owners travelling anywhere in Australia—whether for work or leisure—PetCloud – is partnered with Australia’s leading animal welfare organisation, RSPCA Queensland, and provides access to:
- A National Network of Local sitters & walkers: In all major cities and regional areas
- Affordable rates: Without the luxury mark up – within Government spend limits
- Verified carers: Police-checked, trained with professional accredited animal care and reviewed
- Flexible support: Drop-ins, house sitting, pet taxi, dog walking & more
Rather than book a $500/night pet-friendly suite, PetCloud users can book reliable, affordable pet care that keeps everyone happy—pets, owners, and auditors.
👉 Post a job free and fast to find a Police-Checked Pet Sitter on PetCloud
What standard can I expect with booking a Pet Sitter?
There are many properties to suit your pet’s needs. Below is an example of a fenced, inner metro property that many home based Pet Sitters on PetCloud have similar to:
You can also filter search results, or job applicants to find those Sitters who have completed Pet Professional Training, accredited by RSPCA Queensland. Every Pet Sitter on PetCloud has a passed police background check at the time of joining.
I’m short of time – how long will it take to find a Pet Sitter?
We know – that’s why busy professionals LOVE PetCloud’s Pet Jobs Board. It’s free to post a job, and sends out a job notification in a 25km radius and available Sitters apply – ⚡ lightning fast! Here’s proof 👇
I need a Pet Sitter situated near the Airport or my Hotel
Yes – on PetCloud you can find Pet Sitters conveniently located near inner city hotels or near the Airport who will board your pet at their home.
Final Thought: Travel With Love, Not Lavishness
We all want what’s best for our pets—but when you’re representing the public or managing taxpayer dollars, luxury isn’t always the smartest choice. PetCloud offers a balanced, transparent, and publicly defensible solution that delivers pet care you can trust.
Avoid the headlines—travel with confidence.
Ready to book affordable, trusted pet care while you travel?
👉 Post a job free to find a Police-Checked Pet Sitter on PetCloud
