There’s nothing more pacifying and enjoyable than a camping getaway. It’s ideal for relaxing in nature’s lap and taking a break from your hectic and mundane routine. It’s just what you need to prepare for the oncoming weeks of client meetings, project deadlines, and bill payments.
But if you’ve got a pet dog at home, you’d be faced with the dilemma of where to keep your dog while you’re exploring the outdoors? Of course, you wouldn’t want to leave your pooch behind, all by themselves. And it might be difficult to find a dog sitter for the duration of your trip.
But here’s the thing – you don’t have to make any alternate arrangements for your furry best friend. Instead, you need to figure out the right ways to make them your perfect camping companion. With proper planning and a few trial runs, you can prepare your dog to embrace camping as a way of life.
But how can you ensure your dog’s safety and wellbeing while you’re outdoors? What essential gear and utilities should you pack for the trip? What if there’s a medical emergency in the middle of the trip? How can you ensure that your dog enjoys the getaway as much as you do?
If these questions are racing through your mind right now, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ve outlined a few tips to plan and curate a memorable camping trip with your dog. Let’s take a look.
1. Start Planning Early
Part of the thrill of camping is how spontaneous and carefree you get to feel. But if you want to travel with your dog, it isn’t a good idea to pack your bags and head out without a proper plan.
From selecting a pet-friendly campsite to timing your trip according to the best possible weather conditions – camping with your dog requires meticulous planning. Once you’ve chosen the location, carefully read the rules and regulations.
Also, this is a good time to figure out how you’re going to travel to the campsite. If you need to walk for a while to reach the location, make sure your dog is up for it. Check for public parks and restrooms en route so that your dog can take a quick pee or poop break before reaching the campground.
2. Visit the Vet
So, you’re all set to venture outdoors with your four-legged companion? But before you start the journey, it’s important to make an appointment with your go-to veterinarian. The idea is to ensure that your dog is healthy enough to enjoy a camping trip.
A vet will help diagnose any underlying medical disorders or injuries that could pose a problem during the trip. Also, they can suggest suitable methods to manage your dog’s anxiety at the start of the journey. This is particularly essential if this is going to be the first time you’re traveling with your dog.
Also, it’s a good time to check whether your pooch is up-to-date on their vaccination. Depending on the location of your campsite, ask the vet whether your dog needs any special vaccination.
3. Pack the Right Essentials
It’s now time to start packing. Apart from your regular camping gear, you need to pack a plethora of stuff for your dog. These include leashes, dog collars, food and water bowls, toys, blankets, pillows, etc. If you’re yet to start packing, it’s high time you shop for dog collars, leashes, and other accessories before the trip.
If your dog needs any regular medication, make sure you stock enough medicines for the entire trip. Also, it’s a good idea to pack your dog’s favorite toys, pillows, and bed to make them feel at home in the campground. You could even keep a first-aid kit handy to deal with any unexpected injuries or infections.
4. Plan a Dog-Friendly Itinerary
Taking your dog to a campsite is pointless if you’re going to leave them behind to enjoy excursions and outings on your own. Instead, you should design an itinerary keeping their likes and preferences in mind.
Make sure you include your dog in all activities, including hiking and sightseeing. Or the two of you could just spend a quiet evening enjoying the warmth of a bonfire. Bring toys and games to keep your pooch busy while you take care of the essentials, such as preparing meals and disposing of the garbage.
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Before you go for an extended camping trip, it’s important to familiarize your dog with the outdoors. Start by going on frequent hikes to the neighboring mountains or state parks. Or you could try setting up a camp in your backyard on the weekends. The idea is to acclimatize your pooch with the ambiance of a campsite so that they don’t become anxious or fearful.
What precautions do you take while traveling with pets? Share your suggestions in the comments section below.