Our pups love camping and get antsy when they see us prepping to go. They lay in front of doors or follow us around like our shadows just to make sure we don’t forget them (never!) or, heaven forbid, purposely leave them at home with a dog sitter. They go with us 95% of the time and love every minute spent exploring both new and familiar places with their human parents.
We try to plan as much as possible in order to more fully enjoy our camping time with our fur kids. We consider the “who, what, where, when” of our trip so we know what to bring: Who are we going with? What do we plan to do while there? Where are we heading? When in the season are we going?
Who: If we know we will be joining others, we think about whether or not they have animals, the number of people in the group, and how they feel about our pups. We bring leashes and tie out cables with stakes in case we need to prevent them from making pests out of themselves. We’re fortunate that we rarely need to tie them up and they love being able to run around the camp with their dog and cat cousins. We love it too because it wears them out so when nightfall comes, they are happy resting near us at the campfire.
What: Depending on the location, we may decide to hike, ride our bikes, swim, fish, etc. Thinking about what we want to do on our camping trip helps us consider what we may need to bring along for the boys. For example, if we plan to hike with them, we will bring a collapsible water bowl for them to drink out of, extra water, and leashes. Depending on the distance we plan to go, we may also bring a compact blanket for them to lay on to rest, and some treats to keep up their energy.
Where: Will dogs be allowed? Rules vary for State and National parks so make sure to do your research before you leave. Since we almost always camp in unimproved areas in national forests or BLM land, we know dogs are typically allowed provided they don’t destroy the area or run wild. Be sure to check with the local area you plan to be in and keep a leash with you just in case. You’ll want to still bring doggie bags to pick up after you fur kids – remember the Leave No Trace ethics apply to animals too.
Will we be in an area with other campers close by who are not in our group? If so, we bring long tie out cables we can hook to a stake. This allows them to still move around the campsite without worrying they might wander into someone else’s campsite and bother them.
We don’t leave our dogs alone at camp. If we go someplace, they go with us unless someone in our group stays behind and offers to watch them. We love having them adventure with us though so where we go, they go.
Be sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines and have a copy of their records if you are going to a spot that might require you to show proof (think campgrounds). Keep an eye on them so they don’t eat or drink things they shouldn’t. Check them over for ticks regularly and remove them properly as soon as possible. Be sure to always pack plenty of food and water for them and, if you’re like us, help them sleep in a comfy spot. We bring along their “camp beds” to sleep on in the van.
When: Depending on the time of the year, you might need to consider some additional things. How cold or hot will it be? If camping in winter, like we do, be sure your pup has a sweater and/or jacket to wear, booties, and a warm blanket to lay on. If you’re camping in the heat of summer, make sure to bring plenty of water, find spots with good shade or bring a canopy to make your own, and bring them booties if they might be walking on hot surfaces.
Will there be ticks, ants, mosquitos, or other bugs they can get bit by? If so, we like to make sure they are treated at least 48 hours prior to camping. There are a variety of ways to protect your pup from bugs that might annoy them or cause them to get sick: prescription oral medications from a vet, topical treatments (our choice), or collars. Choose what works best for your dog’s overall health.
We love having fun and making memories with Clyde and Ovi. Answering the who, what, where, when of your camp trip will help ensure your pets will have an enjoyable, safe time too.
Happy camping!
