Camping is such a great family activity. If your family includes a fur baby, there are some extra precautions you need to take. Whether it’s making sure your dog is up-to-date on flea and tick medications or bringing enough poop bags, you’ll love these tips for camping with your dog.
Check with the Campground Before Planning Your Trip
Not all campgrounds allow dogs. You need to check with the campground to make sure they allow pets and if they have any specific rules that you need to know about.
Make Sure Your Dog Is on Flea and Tick Medication
Because many campgrounds are deep in the woods, you want to make sure your dog is current on flea and tick medication. Your dog should also be on a heartworm preventative. This will help keep your pet safe.
Bring Plenty of Water, Food, and Treats
You want to have plenty of fresh water, food, and treats for your dog. Even if you’re staying by a creek or river, you want to have fresh water for your dog. You have no idea what may be in the water that could make your dog sick.
Include Portable Bowls
Don’t forget to bring portable food and water dishes. A portable water dish is great because you can take it with you should you decide to go hiking with your dog.
Pack a Pet First Aid Kit
A good first aid kit is essential. The Human Society of the United States has an excellent article on everything you need to include in the kit.
Put Your Dog on a Leash
Your dog should always be on a leash. This will protect your dog. You never know when your dog will take off after a squirrel and get lost in the woods. With that said, NEVER leave your dog unattended. In other words, do not chain your dog up outside the tent or camper. Bring your dog inside with you. The last thing you want is for your dog to be chained up and attacked by a bear, wolf, or coyote.
Keep Your Dog Away from the Campfire
You want to keep your dog a safe distance away from a campfire. The sparks can cause serious burns. This is another reason to keep your dog on a leash.
Bring Poop Bags
Last, but not least, bring plenty of poop bags. Just because you’re in the woods doesn’t mean you want to leave a mess behind. Also, the smell of your dog’s droppings can attract dangerous wildlife to the area.
Camping with your dog can be a great experience, but you need to remember that you can’t let your dog run free. Not only can it be dangerous, but you could lose your pet. You also need to remember to bring everything your dog might need, including a first aid kit. If this is your first time camping with your dog, you may also want to keep the trip short. You never know how a dog will react to a new atmosphere.