Dogs love the outdoors, so rest assured, they will enjoy the trip and time with you. I have a couple of Dachshunds and they love road trips and getting out. I suppose a good part of that is the Dachshund breed is related to the hunting dogs. These little guys get out and their noses go to work immediately, sniffing out anything and everything and I have to be careful they don’t dart off after some critter.
So if you decide to take your dog camping, you may find these tips useful.
Make sure your dog’s papers are in order
Most camps and RV parks are dog-friendly today, but do yourself a favor to save grief later and call the camp site or RV park where you’re planning on visiting to make sure your 4 legged friend is welcome. And, even though they may be pet friendly, some will require that your pet’s shots are current. Be sure to bring their collar, ID tags (license) and vaccination papers from your vet. Just make a copy of everything and stick them in a folder and you’re all set. By the way, these papers could also come in handy in case of any unforeseen emergency.
It may be a good idea to visit your vet with your dog before heading out to make sure they are protected from flea and or tick infestation. If not, your vet can administer a shot to insure your pet has a good camping experience. A heart worm check may be in order as well. Remember that you are responsible for your pet’s well being whether home or on a camping trip.
Make sure your destination camp or RV park is dog friendly
It’s just a good practice to do research on the camp or RV park that you’re planning to visit in order to check their rules, especially regarding pets and children as well if you have children with you. So, best do your homework so as not to be disappointed when you arrive.
Make sure to pack a first aid kit for your dog
Packing a first aid kit for your dog is just as important as packing one for yourself. And don’t forget their leash. When you’re in the woods, forest or desert with your dog, many things can happen… and quickly. Dogs’ curiosity is heightened in places where they have not been previously. He or she may decide to dart off on the trail of a rabbit or worse. They are also prone to want to bite on certain weeds or berries and then sickness, choking or even poisoning is possible. Having a pet first aid kit can be very helpful in situations such as these.
Make sure to bring the basic essentials
The obvious items to bring for your dog is food and water. But, give this some thought as dogs will drink more water in the outdoors, especially if taken on hikes and other forms of exercise.
In addition, don’t forget their favorite blanket and toys. Also bring enough plastic bags to clean up after them. Every park I’ve been in requires that dogs be on a leash, so make sure that is in your pet’s equipment bag as well.
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