Going camping with your dogs will give them a chance to explore and do lots of physical activities. Getting to spend some quality with them will help with bonding. If all goes well, they might end up loving camping, and it can become a shared hobby.
While camping with dogs may sound like a simple idea, you need to be prepared to prevent accidents and injuries. You must properly take care of your beloved pet even when you’re relaxing. We have compiled 7 tips for camping with your dog to make sure not only is your pup safe but also ends up loving the experience.
7 Tips for Camping with Dogs:
Practice with Your Dog
It’s essential that you understand your dog’s personality. Some dogs are cautious, while some are more outgoing. Some dogs have zero to the little experience of outdoor exploring. You need to adjust your pet to the various surrounding before going camping.
Try setting up a tent inside the house and let them approach you. Suppose they’re willing to enter and rest there, set up a tent in your backyard. Backyard tenting is the most effective practice for camping. It will teach your dog to be outdoor and get used to night noises. You should get the best tent for camping with your dog.
Research Campsites Extensively
Some camping sites have a strict no-pets rule. Some areas are animal friendly. So, researching the site before planning the journey is essential. Even pet-friendly places have their own rules like lease laws where your dog can see six feet of leash maximum.
Some sites allow unleashed pets only if they’re very well-behaved and can follow commands easily. This also includes non-aggressive social behaviors and a low amount of barking. Weather is essential as well. At the same time, some dogs like husky or malamute prefer snowy weather, most dogs like sunny days with little rain.
Do a Health Check-up
You must take your dog to the vet for a check-up before a camping trip. Ensure that your dog has the necessary vaccinations, as it might be a requirement for some sites. The overall health of your pet needs to be considered. Don’t camp with even a slightly sick dog, as it will worsen the situation.
Campsites have bugs and ticks. Your dog must have the protection it needs. Consult your vet for good flea treatment cream and sprays. Groom your dog and trim its nails to prevent heat exhaustion and accidents.
Prepare First Aid Kit
Your dog may get hurt unexpectedly, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. You must have a first aid box filled with both human and pet-friendly items. Carry your pet’s vet records and medical papers. Remember to watch some tutorials on dog first aid before the trip to prepare yourself.
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Your kit must contain tweezers to remove ticks, antiseptic, gauze, pet-friendly bandages, and needle-nose pliers to remove thorns, shock blankets, thermometer, etc. Pack a first aid manual for pets as well. Their paws might get injured, so take some tiny socks as well.
Pack Necessities and Food
There are some necessities that you must not forget. Remember to pack your dog’s toys and accessories, emergency food, portable bed, medicine if they have any, leash, waste bags, rain-coats, extra towels, and their ID information. Pack a separate bag for your dog if necessary.
A vital item is their drinking water. While some sites offer drinking water, always carry your own, especially if you’re backpacking. Organize their meals into small bags and maintain their feeding routine. Always keep some emergency food and water on you at all times.
Have Tracking Devices and Information
Dogs are excitable animals and may go missing trying to chase something. You must have tracking information. Please take a picture of them before you go on your trip and try to emphasize unique features. Keep several prints of that photo with you.
Putting a tracking device, like a GPS collar, can help you find them easily on your dog. Along with microchipping your dog, use physical ID tags. Put your contact information, photo if necessary, your dog’s name, the place of camping in the physical ID tag.
After Reaching Campsite
After you have reached your camping place, maintain camping etiquettes. If you go to a pet-friendly site, keep your dog leashed to avoid aggression with other animals. There may be wildlife lurking, so never leave your pet unattended. Always have them by your side.
When you create a campfire for cooking and warmth, keep them at a distance to avoid accidents. Fabric lightweight crates are a great help. Always pick up their wastes and dispose of them properly. You should not let your dog drink from natural water sources as it might cause infection.
Conclusion
Hopefully, these seven tips for camping with your dog helped your preparation process. Remember that even though you’re camping to make memories with your dog, you need to be on your guard at all times. Try to make the camping trip as fun and safe as possible for your dog. Investing in a good pet health insurance is also advisable to keep your pet safe and healthy during your camping trip!
