While not all dogs are cut out for it, camping can be a fun activity you can enjoy with your dog if you’re both the outdoorsy-type. If you think your dog would be up for it, there are things you can do to help ensure a successful trip.
Before you leave:
- Do your research – choose a campsite where dogs are allowed, and find out the rules about restricted areas. You’ll also want the number of a local veterinarian, just in case, and a kennel if you plan to participate in any activities or day trips where dogs are not welcome.
- Practice your basic training – the “leave it” command is important for when she encounters something undesirable or dangerous, “come” and “wait” can save a life, and a quiet-command can save the sanity of everyone for miles.
- Check that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date – this is a requirement at many campgrounds, and you may have to carry proof if crossing any borders.
- Treat with parasite preventive – while fleas and ticks can be anywhere, they are guaranteed to be in the woods!
What to pack:
- Enough food to last the trip, and water if there is no clean source – lakes, rivers and streams can be contaminated with parasites; don’t forget the bowls!
- Collar or harness, and a leash, plus a spare – and a tag with your cell phone number or the number of the campground if you will be there for a while.
- Bedding – if you are bringing your dog’s bed, it will need to be on some padding to prevent the cold from coming up from the ground; depending on the season and your dog’s preferences, you may want to bring her a sleeping bag of her own or be prepared to share yours!
- Vaccination certificates and all medications.
- Clean-up supplies – pick up after your dog just like at home.
- Towels and blankets for when your dog gets wet.
- First aid kit, just in case.
- Dog personal flotation device if you plan on boating.
- A brush or comb to get burrs, stickers and other debris out of her fur.
- A light-up collar can be a brilliant idea to help you find her at a glance in the dark.
Dos and Don’ts
- Do keep your dog on a leash so she can’t get lost.
- Don’t leave your dog unattended – you can put your dog on a tie-out so she can explore safely while you’re with her, but don’t leave. She may bark more than usual in unfamiliar territory, which can ruin the environment for everyone; plus wildlife could be attracted by the barking, and your dog won’t be able to get away.
- Do protect your dog from wildlife – that leash will prevent her from bounding off into the woods where she could find something dangerous and be seriously hurt – or worse.
- Do protect wildlife from your dog – people at neighboring campsites might enjoy the deer, birds and rabbits – so don’t let your dog harass them.
- Do keep her warm – here’s where that bedding comes in.
- Don’t let her get too close to the campfire – flying embers can seriously burn her.
- Do plan activities that you both will enjoy, taking into consideration your dog’s physical characteristics (a Basset Hound won’t make a good companion for swimming or long hikes!).
- Do watch your dog for signs of heatstroke or any pain, discomfort or illness – and be prepared to cut the trip short if there are problems.
- Do have a great trip!