by Linda Chase at Ablehire.org
Dogs and the great outdoors are a great pairing, but camping with your canine requires some preparation. Taking your dog camping can be a great bonding experience, but it’s important that you’re both ready to encounter fellow campers and avoid potential dangers. With these tips from Dogs of Britain, you’ll both be ready to enjoy the trip!
Preparing for Adventure
You may be comfortable throwing a few things in the trunk and heading to the mountains or desert, but this level of
preparation won’t serve you and your pup well. Camping with your dog requires some foresight and strategic packing.
But with a little work, you’ll be prepared for an epic human/canine camping trip.
- Some dogs can be afraid of fire, so get your dog accustomed to being around a campfire with a backyard fire pit.
- There are many dog-friendly campsites but do your research first because not every camp is Fido-friendly.
- Now that you know where you’re going, what should you pack for your pup? Get to know the canine camping
essentials. - Avid campers know how to avoid dangers, but your dog doesn’t. Learn the dog-specific problems you’re likely to
encounter on the trail so that you can help your pup avoid them and enjoy an injury-free trip.
Essential Supplies
If you’ve been camping for a while, you likely have your go-to gear ready to pack. But does your dog have their
camping essentials? It’s important to have dog-specific gear that you adjust depending on where you’re going
and during which time of year.
- Don’t forget to pack a special first aid kit for your canine camper. You can order premade kits or make your own.
- It’s tempting to let our dogs run free on the trails, but it’s also important that you can get ahold of your pup when
needed. Harnesses can be a great alternative — or complement — to traditional collars so that you can secure or even
lift your dog when needed. - If you’re planning on winter or cold weather camping use this guide to ensure your pup has what they need to stay
warm.
Helpful Health Tips
Your camping trip is for you and your dog to enjoy, so keep these tips for your dog’s health in mind.
- Minor injuries are common during camping and hiking trips, but do you know how to patch up your pup if he comes to you with a cut? Here are some tips for caring for your canine companion’s health.
- Ticks are an unfortunate reality at many campsites. If your dog brings home a few unwanted guests, it’s important that you know how to safely remove them.
- If you’re camping in a warm climate or during the summer, be sure to learn the symptoms of heat stroke and how to
cool your pup down.
Now that you know what to do to get you and your dog prepared, you’re ready for an adventure. Find a nice spot,
settle in, and make some new friends!