Camping Checklist Dos and Don’ts
Even though camping isn’t for me, I know lots of folks who LOVE it. We use to love to camp when the kids were little. Lots of Laughs on those trips. Now Mike and I want to try and rent a camper and take a drive down to NOLA to visit our son with Sasha, our dachshund.
Bringing your furry one along camping (or glamping) is a great bonding experience. But before you pack up and hit the road, look over my DOs and DON’Ts of camping with your dog.
What to do when camping with a DOG
• First, decide if your dog will enjoy camping. Not all dogs will enjoy it. Sasha has been on some long drives to Folly Beach for about 13 hours. She does great and can relax in the car. We do take a couple of breaks for her to get out and sniff. We use Calm K9 to help her relax in the car. If your dog would rather stay home, let them!
• Make sure you know all the rules or regulations in the area. Is your dog’s breed or size allowed? National and state parks often have restrictions to follow to keep your pet and wildlife and habitats safe! Always follow them.
• Pack the right gear. When I venture out with Sasha, I always bring a soft collapsible crate, car seat with seat belt, vet information, shot records, flashlight, life jacket, long lead, short lead, collapsible bowls, and a First aid kit for pets. Other things you might need include pet sunscreen, tick & flea treatment, and a reflective vest. You can check out the new Tick Twister which is great to have for easy removal of ticks.
• Bring the comforts for you and your pet. Sasha absolutely loves her tug toys and lick mat. Bring your dog's raised bed, blanket, sleeping pad, crate, favorite toys, and/or treats. Not exactly comforts—but any medications or calming aids like Calm K9
• Don’t leave your dog unattended. Your dog is your buddy on the trip. Leaving them couped up in the camper or cabin is no fun (and could be dangerous). One of my favorite activities to do with my dog while camping is going on hikes and exploring new trails.
• Don’t leave their ‘business’ laying around. Pick up after your dog regularly and properly dispose of the waste. Check out this DOOLOOP DEVICE FOR EASY CARRY IN-CARRY-OUT OF PET WASTE.
• Don’t expect your dog to be okay the entire trip. Just like us humans, pets have their triggers and ‘off’ days. I remember once when hiking with Sasha, she was a tad tired, and we tried to push her a bit too much. In the long run, it would have just been easier to sit and take a 15 min break. You can only go as fast as your slowest member. Dogs can dehydrate super-fast. A great product is Fresh K9(see A-OK9 links above). Be understanding and prepare to handle any stressors.
• Don’t forget to practice before you get there. Try setting up the tent in your backyard and play some crate games. Just hang out in the tent and play games that are fun for your dog. Work on your dog being in the crate in the tent and gradually work up to a sleepover.
Did I miss something? Tell me what else all dog parents need to do or not do when camping add a post in the comments below or contact us at Karen@gooddogconcepttraining.com or