Happy Tails: Tips for Camping with Your Dog
Pet ExpertDogs make great companions when camping. In addition to being great company, they often warn off most animals that may try to bother your camp site. It is important to note what type of dog you have and the conditions in which you are taking her camping. If your dog is not suited for a camp environment or hiking work-out, you should consider finding a doggie sitter. However, camping with your dog can be a wonderful experience.
On the trip, there are a number of things you should bring with your dog. Your pup will most likely require her own bag for dog accessories, so get packing! The first and most important item to pack is food. Putting your dog food in two water proof plastic bags prevents it from getting moldy and other critters smelling the food. In addition, your dog must always have fresh water available to her. Be careful of letting your dog drink from random streams or lakes, as the bacteria is not always good for her. Drinking from unsanitary water sources is a good way to give your dog worms. Water bottles with a collapsible water dish are highly recommended. This way, your dog can drink anywhere at any time. During hikes, make sure to bring a spare bottle of water for your dog. Other items, like dog treats, a ball or water wubba, leashes, and maybe even a tie-out, are good things to consider bringing, as well. You want your dog to be comfortable, but you should also make sure the extra items can be packed well.
During hikes, you might consider a back pack for your dog, if she can handle the extra weight. Make sure to always have your dog’s leash, identification tags, and walking collar. If you are planning on walking on rough terrain, you might consider dog shoes to protect sensitive paw pads.
If you are going to be camping on or near a lake or fast-moving river, you should make sure your dog wears a life jacket at all times. Some dogs love water, while others are not quite fond of swimming. Whether your dog is a swimmer or not, a dog life jacket should be used to protect against any accidental drownings or injuries.
A sample packing guide may look like this:
Prepare food in double plastic water proof bags- Keep 2 bottles of water for your dog at all times
- Bring a dog first aid kit, including flea & tick repellent
- Bring a warm blanket for your dog
- Bring a dry towel to dry your dog in case of rain
- Bring collapsible containers to feed and water dog
- Bring dog shoes in case of rocky or rough terrain
- Larger dogs may carry a small “backpack”
- Always carry a leash and a harness instead of typical choker or “walking collar” to prevent getting stuck
- Bring a favorite toy or something from home to comfort the dog in times of stress
With these tips, your dog should enjoy camping as much as you do!
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