So, you want to bring your dog on your upcoming camping trip. Dogs are a man’s best friend, after all, so it’s hard to imagine having all your fun without them. The good news is that with the right research and preparation, camping is one of the best dog-friendly adventures you can embark on! It’s a phenomenal way to bond with your furry friend, explore the outdoors, and stay mentally and physically active.
But before grabbing the dog bed, packing the tent, and hitting the road, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Introducing your dog to a new environment, not to mention disrupting their normal routine, comes with a fair share of preparation. To ensure everyone stays comfortable, happy, and safe, check out these important do’s and don’ts of camping with your canine!
The Do’s
Set yourself up for success with this list of non-negotiables before setting up camp!
Do Research Campsite Rules
Does the campground you plan to set up camp at even allow pets? Before planning or prepping anything else, be sure the site you choose allows your four-legged friend. Most campgrounds make it clear at booking whether or not pets are allowed. If it’s unclear for whatever reason, take the extra time to call and find out. The last thing you want to do is pull up to your prepaid site, only to see a “No Pets Allowed” sign hanging at the entrance.
Once you confirm they’re welcome, be sure to read up on any additional rules and regulations regarding your pet. Some campgrounds will require dogs to stay on leash, and some may only allow them in designated areas. Whatever the case, be aware of the policies to avoid any trouble during your stay.
Do Pay Your Vet a Visit
A quick check-up at the vet can safeguard you from bigger headaches down the line. Confirm your pet is up to date on their vaccines, in good overall health, and has any necessary preventative medications for your trip. Some common medications to inquire about for camping trips include heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. It’s also possible for your dog to suffer from seasonal allergies. If you’ve noticed these symptoms in your pet, talk to your vet about treatment options before heading outdoors during allergy season.
Additionally, if they aren’t already, consider microchipping your dog. No matter how well-trained your pet is, or how close attention you pay to them, the risk of your dog getting separated from you, or worse, lost, increases when out in nature for extended periods. Microchips provide permanent identification and can make reuniting easier if your dog was to get lost.
Do Plan Dog-Friendly Activities
Bringing your dog along to camp requires you to fully consider them in your itinerary. While your campground may be pet-friendly, it’s not always the case that nearby recreational activities are, too. Many national and state parks have strict no-pet policies in an attempt to preserve natural ecosystems. For this reason, it’s important to plan your itinerary and give yourself plenty of time to research options both you and your dog can enjoy. Some common pet-friendly activities around campsites can include canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming at nearby beaches, and hiking pet-friendly trails.
Do Pack Their Own Gear
You already know to bring their everyday essentials, but just as you need your own camping gear, your dog does too! Consider the activities you’ll be doing together, the weather of your destination, and your pet’s preferences.
Get started with this list of camping essentials for dogs:
- Dog bed
- Dog food and treats
- Plenty of potable water
- Collapsible food and water bowls
- Leashes, harnesses, collars, and tethers
- Poop bags
- Light-up gear for night-time walks
- Outdoor toys
- Pet-friendly first-aid kit
- A pair of dog shoes
- Any necessary medications
- Pet wipes or extra towels
Do Watch Out for Wildlife
Remember that wildlife safety applies to your pets, too. Your dog has natural instincts that, if triggered, could put themselves and you in danger. Always keeping your pets within eyesight, preferably contained by a leash or tether, helps keep them at bay if wildlife suddenly approaches camp. You and your pets should always give nearby wildlife room, ideally 25 yards or more of space. Stay alert, stay aware, and be prepared to handle encounters calmly.
The Don’ts
Now that you know what you should do to prepare for your dog-inclusive camping trip, here are a few don’ts.
Don’t Use Any Old Tent
When deciding which tent you’ll need for a camping trip with your dog, prioritize two things: space and durability.
Comfort is key to you and your pet’s happiness; so make plenty of room for them. Even though they’re not human, camping with your dog means accounting for another body in your tent. Depending on how many other human friends you have camping with you, consider the biggest tent for a trip that involves your furry friend. Measure your tent to ensure it will fit both your dog’s bed and everyone else’s sleeping bags.
Durability is also important when picking your tent. Dogs don’t understand the concept of taking care of camping gear the way we do. Whether it’s their long nails or their natural tendency to explode with energy, you’ll want your tent to be able to withstand the roughhousing of your pet.
If you want your gear to last, invest in a high-quality tent known for durability. Canvas tents are considered to be the most durable option, and the tent on the market will be able to withstand long-term use by you and your dog.
Don’t Leave Them Alone
Leaving your pet unattended at camp increases their chances of getting into trouble and being put in harm’s way. Temperature changes, sudden weather changes, or even wildlife encounters can put your dog in danger without the proper supervision and care. If you’re not around, you won’t be there to help if they find themselves in a compromising situation.
Plus, they might just miss you! Leaving them alone in an unfamiliar environment could induce anxiety. This may manifest in barking, whining, or plan discomfort for your pet.
Planning dog-friendly activities is a great way to stay together and keep you and your furry friend busy throughout your trip. If you’re traveling with a group, be sure at least one camper is with your pet at all times to guarantee everyone stays safe and happy.
Don’t Annoy Your Neighbors
If you’re at a campground with other campers nearby, be considerate of their experience! While you love your dog and believe they can do no wrong – your neighbors may not be inclined to agree. Keep your dog secured on a tether or leash at all times to avoid them running into other people’s campsites. You should also try your best to keep your dog’s barking at a minimum, especially during campground quiet hours when your neighbors are likely trying to get a good night’s rest. Being mindful of your neighbors is important at home, and it’s just as important at camp, too.
Don’t Forget About the Weather
When packing for your trip, don’t forget to check the weather. If you’re traveling during seasons of extreme heat, or extreme cold, it may be best to leave them at home. Outside of intense temperatures, be sure to prepare for conditions like rain, snow, and storms. Weather can change quickly outdoors, and you don’t want an oversight like forgetting your rain jacket or towel to keep you from leaving your tent. Monitor the weather in the days leading up to your trip, and adjust your packing list where necessary.
Don’t Overlook Their Impact
Even though your dog is an animal, they’re not native to the outdoors the way local wildlife are. For that reason, Leave No Trace principles apply to your domesticated pets, too. To respect nature and protect local ecosystems, it’s important to pick up after your dog when staying outdoors. Always remove pet waste to reduce hazards to people and the environment. Any trash created by your dog, whether it be poop bags, treat wrappers, or leftover food, should also be disposed of properly.
Make Unforgettable Memories
As you prepare to bring your canine along on your camping trip, it’s important to keep these do’s and don’ts in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend. Through researching campsite rules, visiting the vet, planning dog-friendly activities, packing the right gear, watching out for wildlife, and avoiding common mistakes like leaving your pet alone or annoying your neighbors, you can set yourselves up for a memorable and stress-free experience. With the proper preparation, camping with your dog can strengthen your bond and be the catalyst for unforgettable memories!