Spending quality time with your dog can be a great way to pass the time. In fact, you may even decide that you want to go hiking and camping with your dog.
I recently wrote an article about hiking with your dog, to ensure that both you and your dog have a good time. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.
If you decide to take your dog camping with you, you need to plan ahead in order to make sure that the trip is a success for both of you. Here are some tips to help.
Make sure that your dog is ready for the trip.
Before you even think about traveling, you need to make sure that your dog can behave him or herself. Training is essential to make sure that everyone can have a good time.
Getting a good physical is also helpful so that you know that your dog is healthy enough for a trip. Though anything can just “pop up,” you will make sure that your dog seems healthy for a trip.
Pack enough things for your trip.
Though you may think that all you need is your dog before you go, the truth is that you need more than that.
You are going to need to pack food and bowls. You shouldn’t forget water. Many dogs are used to the water in their home, and they may not drink other water as well as they do at home. If your dog is used to a lot of treats, you should bring them along as well.
Amazon offers this all-in-one dog travel set, which includes two collapsible bowls, a water bottle, and even a treat bag, to make packing for your dog easy.
You also need to make sure that you have the right equipment.
You need a good, steady, and strong leash and harness or collar. You don’t want your leash to break when you are out and about.
You may want to bring your dog’s bed so that he or she gets a good night’s sleep every night, as well as any toys that you may want. A tether to hook him or her up when you are just hanging around the campsite is also a good idea.
It might be a good idea to take some extra special treats along. Though you wouldn’t want to try new treats while you are away camping, it is a good idea to find treats that are special for your dog, ones that will make him or her drop everything to get.
And a crate.
You are going to want to make sure that your dog has a place where he or she is safe. Just like at home, your dog needs to know that he or she has a place all of his or her own. If your dog wants to be left alone, he or she has a place to do so.
Then, you need to make sure that you plan ahead.
You need to make sure that you can take your pet wherever you go. This includes making sure that the campground allows dogs. You should read up on any rules that are in place, such as leash laws and other things.
You also need to take care when you are planning. You may need to add in a few rest stops to ensure that your dog has time to go to the bathroom and get some extra energy out when you are on a long trip.
This may include the weather. You should make sure that you are prepared, no matter what the weather brings. You may want to bring extra water along if it is going to be really hot. If they are calling for storms, you might want to plan some extra inside activities. You should also bring extra towels to dry your dog off before he or she heads in!
Though your dog may be well-behaved at home, you shouldn’t expect that in a strange environment.
This doesn’t mean that you should expect the worst. You just need to make sure that you keep a good eye on your dog at all times.
This includes watching out for other dogs. Camping sites where dogs are allowed may be filled with other dogs. Your dog may be good around other dogs, but those may not be. It is often better to keep your distance, either way.
If your dog needs some extra training before you venture out, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more!
It is a good idea to have a first-aid kit along when you travel.
This should also include your dog’s vaccine records, just in case the campsite requires it. You may also want to bring some gauze and elastic bandages in case your dog gets cut. It may be a good idea to know the closest animal emergency hospital in case you need it. You don’t want to be stuck in an emergency, without knowing where to turn.
Amazon has many first-aid kits for dogs, like this one, that you may want to check out. It will even work well at home or in your car!
Camping with your dog can be loads of fun, if he or she is ready. You want to make sure that he or she is well-trained and can get along with others. If your dog gets car sick, it might be easier to leave him or her at home!
You also need to make sure that you take everything that you need, including bowls and water. Don’t forget special treats, and make sure that you bring his or her crate along. You may even want to have a first-aid kit, just in case!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.