Camping Gear

Camping with your Dog

Camping is great any time of year. Each summer, thousands of people pack up their camping gear and head out to their favorite campground for a quick and simple getaway. Because our dogs are such a large part of the family, it makes sense that you may decide you would like to take your family Fido along on your next camping trip.

When you take your dog camping, there isn’t a need for specific camping gear just for this four-legged friend. Some people do like to give their dog a special cot or sleeping area within the family tent. But for your dog to be truly comfortable, all they need is to be near the family. This is one reason why some people like to purchase a larger family tent; to allow space for their dog. Another reason to allow your dog into your family tent is protection. A barking dog is a great deterrent for other animals to stay away.

The first step in camping with your dog is to make sure the campsites you choose to visit are pet friendly. For instance, in a U. S. National Park, dogs are not allowed outside of vehicles. This means no camping with your pet in a National Park. However, you can usually find a National Forest and/or state park near any National Park. These parks typically do allow camping with pets. It is necessary to check, either online or by phone, before you go in order to avoid frustrations.

It is always a good idea to plan a pre-trip vet visit, especially if you will be camping for a few weeks. Dogs should be up on their shots and be able to handle any rigors of camping that they may go through. You don’t want to set out on a 3-hour hike if your pooch will poop out! In addition to receiving a checkup, you should also find a vet located near your campground just in case of an emergency.

Dogs need to maintain a routine both at home and on vacation. For your dog to do well away from home, bring some of his favorite toys as well as his regular food and water. Your dogs regular bowls should also make the trip. Although your dog will enjoy the new sights and sounds of camping, there is still a need for the familiar in order to lessen any stress due to being away from home. You can alleviate that stress by bringing a little bit of home with you.

Dogs can get lost; it’s just a part of being a dog. In order to keep your family friend as safe as possible, it is important to keep them on a leash while away from home. Some people will also make up temporary dog tags with the dogs name and contact information based on your camping whereabouts. If your cell phone does not have service, then list the phone number of the campground along with your name and campsite number if you have it.

Fleas and ticks are no fun for your dog or for your home. Make sure that Fido has been adequately treated for fleas and ticks so he doesn’t bring any unwanted guests home with him!