Going off leash
with Peter deVries

Yes. You can take your dog (and car) to Tasmania aboard the Spirit of Tasmania ferry, which sails between Geelong in Victoria and Devonport in Tasmania’s north west. You can also fly your dog to Tasmania with Qantas, Virgin Australia, Sharp Airlines or Pawmobile. Jetstar is not equipped to transport pets.

To prevent the introduction of pests and parasites, Tasmania has special entry requirements for dogs entering the state. You will need to complete a biosecurity declaration form and ensure your dog has been treated for hydatid tapeworm and checked for brown dog ticks before entry.

Once here, there are plenty of places you can visit in Tasmania with a dog. Discover Tasmania’s top dog-friendly accommodation, eateries, beaches and bush walks.

Yes, you can bring your dog on both day and overnight sailings on the Spirit of Tasmania. Climate-controlled pet kennels are available on Deck 5, with both large and small options.

For safety reasons, passenger access to kennels is only allowed during boarding and disembarking. During sailing crew conduct regular checks and provide fresh water throughout the journey, while Kennel Cam gives you peace of mind. You'll need to bring your own dog bedding and comfort items and be physically able to lift your dog into their kennel.

From late 2026, the new Spirit of Tasmania IV and V vessels will offer 18 pet-friendly cabins for night sailings, allowing dogs to stay with passengers in their cabin. The new ships will also feature a designated outdoor area for owners to take their dog on-leash. A secure, CCTV-monitored and climate-controlled pet kennel area will still be available if you’re in another cabin or taking a day sailing.

Yes. Your dog can travel on Virgin Australia, Qantas and Sharp Airlines flights to Tasmania but they will need to be booked as cargo. You will need to provide a suitable airline and IATA approved crate to keep your pet safe and comfortable.

While Virgin Australia has a pets-in-cabin trial for small dogs and cats on some Australian flights, this is not yet available on flights into Tasmania. Pawmobile provides regular private charters based out of Essendon and Devonport airports, with all pets travelling in the aircraft cabin during the 75min flight. Humans can also fly with the “pawsengers” if chartering the entire plane.

Some airlines have restrictions for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog breeds, which need a special certificate and should be booked through airline-approved pet travel specialists.

To protect native wildlife, dogs and other pets are not allowed in Tasmania’s national parks and reserves, unless it is a trained or accredited assistance dog (you’ll need to show a permit for your dog guide). Learn more about accessible travel and obtaining your permit.

National parks provide a refuge for the island’s native animals and plants, including many rare and endangered species only found in Tasmania. Even well-behaved dogs can introduce invasive weeds and diseases, while dog scents and barking can scare away native animals and even cause parents to abandon their offspring.

You can take your dog to some conservation areas, nature recreation areas, local parks and beaches in Tasmania. Check with Parks Tasmania or the local council for dog-friendly hours and any restrictions. Please keep your furry friend on a leash unless signage permits off-leash access.