Top 7 Tips for Camping with your Dog
By: Pet City On: 25 February 2020
Here's some great tips from experienced campers to help you check off everything you need to take your dog.
Dogs are part of the modern day family, so it's no wonder why we love to take them on adventures to the great outdoors. They love the fresh air as much as we do, and getting out and roughing-it-up is probably more enjoyable if you have four legs and a fur coat. With the increasing popularity of involving the pets in family holidays there are even more places popping up around that have pet-friendly campsites.
However, not all fellow campers (both human or canine) love dogs, so it's important to come prepared and know your pet's boundaries. Things you should consider are:
- Will your dog be okay going camping?
- Are the people you're going camping with be ok with your dog?
- Will your pet be overstimulated or anxious?
- Is the campsite you want to go to dog friendly? (National Parks are NOT)
1. Parasite Protection is VITAL
Oh yeah, it can get pretty hairy out in the bush when it comes to insects. We pack repellent for ourselves, but we can't use that stuff on our dogs. Ensure you pack pet-friendly repellent and make sure your dog's flea and tick treatment are up-to-date and ideally weather-proof. Tablet treatments like Bravecto and Nexgard are one the best for fast and effective protection against nasties like paralysis ticks.
It's also a great idea to take emergency treatments, like a tick-removal tool and spray repellents.
2. Dogs Get Cold Too
And hot, and wet. Always be mindful of your dog's body temp which can easily be done by touching the ears or feat. If you're expecting colder weather, be sure to have your dog fitted for a jacket or raincoat before embarking on your journey.
Your pet's sleeping area should contain enough bedding to keep them warm. If your dog isn't sleeping in your tent or camper you might need a trampoline bed and some blankets too. Keep placement in mind when putting out your pets bed (the same with your tent) away from windy areas and ideally close to you.
3. Prepare to Clean-Up
You have to clean your dog, as well as clean up after your dog.
You might be surprised at how dirty a dog can get in the great outdoors. Sand, mud, bugs, water, animal dung... It's amazing how dirty a dog can become just being outside all the time.
4. Your Dog is your Responsibility
While on holiday it can be easy to get a little 'lax when it comes to holding the leash, especially after a big day of activities. If you choose to let them off leash you should only do so if your dog has a rock solid recall. If not, your pet should always be tethered and supervised.
Always check with the site's ground rules with your pet, too. Some places may not allow dogs in certain areas or have strict on-leash rules. These rules are in place for your pet's safety and should never be broken.
5. Use a Collar Light
It's a fantastic idea to fit your dog's harness or collar up with a light. It's safest when you can always see your pooch, especially at night when the light is limited. You can also equip your dog with reflective gear.
6. Bring Their Food in a Container
If you're taking dry food be sure to put it into an air-tight container. Wildlife like bush turkeys and rats LOVE the smell of dog food. So be sure it's kept out of harm's way and it's less likely to be contaminated and attract vermin to your campsite.
Also consider taking more than what your dog would need - chances are your pooch will be burning off more energy.
7. A Good Harness Is Essential
When it comes to outdoor activities you should have a harness that has reflective lining, at least one D ring for a car attachment and lead, a handle (especially for hiking or boating) and be properly fitted. Our favourite harnesses are:
