Tips For Camping With Your Dog

If you are thinking about taking your dog camping, keep in mind that there are many advantages to sharing the great outdoors with your pet.  Camping is an excellent way for people and their dogs to get away from the stressors of life and relax, and it helps strengthen the bond between you and your dog.  Your pup will be in his natural element and will love all the new sights, sounds and smells. Here are a few tips that may make camping with your dog a bit more enjoyable and possibly safer.

Finding A Pet Friendly Campsite/Campground

Finding the perfect pet friendly campsite requires a bit of research on your part. There are some campsites that allow pets, others allow but have restrictions and some that strictly do not allow pets. As you might guess, you will want to be sure your campsite does allow pets before you make the long journey out there; you don’t want to arrive, only to discover that your furry friend is banned. Find out in advance if your campsite, cabin or trails are pet friendly.

Make Sure You Know The Following:

·         Is my dog permitted on the campsite?

·         Is my dog permitted on the trails on or near the campsite?

·         Are there any restrictions for my dog on the campsite or in its surroundings?

·         Is there a fee to have my dog stay at the campsite? (Many campsites will charge a fee)

In the United States most of the state parks allow dogs on their campsite and many also allow dogs on some or all hiking trails. Dogs must be leashed  at all times!

Dogs are normally allowed in the campsites of National Parks, National Forests and National Monuments. However, they are usually restricted from the trails.

Private campsites can vary with accommodating dogs. Some are very dog friendly and allow you and your dog a lot of access. Other private campsites are less accommodating and may only provide a patch of grass for your dog to sniff and roam. This may not be overly enjoyable for your dog.

Some Things Your Campsite will Likely Require:

·         Your dog has to be on a leash  or tied up at all times and not be left unattended.

·         You take responsibility for your dog’s behavior and actions.

·         You respect your camping neighbors.

·         You clean up after your dog in the campsite and its surroundings.

Pet Friendly Campsites and Campgrounds

Here’s a great website to help you find a pet friendly campsite in your country/area and that inform you of pet policies in your destination:

Worldwide/United States: Bring Fido

It is a good idea when selecting a campsite to find one that offers shade. This helps prevent your dog from full and direct sunlight. It is also ideal to find a campsite that is near a stream or lake to give your dog an easy source of water.

Again, it is important to do your research and find a campsite that will suit you and your dogs needs. The best thing to do is to look online on the campsites website or call them up and ask the necessary questions.

Canine Camping Tips

Consider a pre-traveling vet visit. Ask your vet about the best insect control program for your dog while camping.

Get current on all shots and vaccinations and obtain a Rabies tag for your dog’s collar.

Consider a possible Lyme disease vaccine.

Obtain a current copy of their records and vet’s phone number.

Provide ID tags for your dog with their name, your name and address and phone number.

Microchipping your dog is always a good idea. Please see my article on Microchipping Your Pets, dated  March 7, 2016.

Bring medications and copy of prescriptions.

Consider use of a crate for travel and short term restraint.

Don’t forget to pack plenty of water from home for your dog. Bring their regular food bowls, food and treats. To avoid problems, keep them on their regular schedule.

Bring their chew toys and dog brush.

Always bring their collar and leash.

For unexpected situations, pack first aid items or a first aid kit for your dog, and also a towel.

Obtain the phone number of a vet in the area where you are staying.

Make sure you have complete control over your dog at all times. Keep them on their leash.

Do not allow your dog to bark. Frequent and continued barking disturbs the wildlife and other campers.

Closely supervise your dog around children, other visitors and other dogs.

Never leave your dog outside unattended.

Always pick up after your dog.

Make use of designated dog walking areas.

Use ziplock bags to pick up after them and properly dispose of them in appropriate trash containers.

Give your dog time to adjust to his new surroundings. Give him time to rest.

Ensure that your dog doesn’t get tangled around tent poles or stakes, tables, trees, rocks etc.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise, but consider the effect of activity and energy levels on your pup’s health.

Be aware of how weather conditions effect your dog – heat, cold, rain etc. Keep him hydrated and ensure that he is getting nutrition from his food.

Remove any leftover food after your dog eats. This food could attract unwanted insects or wildlife.

Be courteous of others while walking your dog. Keep your dog calm and controlled.

Consider your dog’s sleeping arrangements and ensure that he is warm enough during the night. It’s best to keep him near you so that he doesn’t wander off or encounter any potential danger while you are sleeping.

Be aware that your dog may have increased exposure to ticks and fleas. Have the proper tick/flea collars, repellents or use Frontline applications, as discussed with your dog’s veterinarian.  Check your dog often for ticks that have made their way onto your pup and remove them before they attach, if possible. If they are already attached, have a Tick Twister handy to easily remove them.

Never leave your pet alone!!

Be aware that wildlife may pose dangers for your dog if he is left unattended. Predatory animals like coyotes, hawks, bears, wolves, and others should be considered when taking your dog camping, so keep your pup safe at all times. Smaller animals like raccoons and possum may rouse curiosity in your dog which might result in fighting or attack, and there’s always that elusive skunk to watch out for!  (See Skunk Recipe for De-Skunking your Pet, located at the bottom of the article on Basic First Aid for Pets.)

There are so many advantages in taking your dog camping with you.  Although there are some things to consider in keeping him safe and healthy during your shared adventure, he will surely enjoy being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine.  It is certain that he will appreciate the time spent with you even more.  So, have fun…..and take lots of photos!