We day dream all winter about summer vacation. We make itineraries and check lists to ensure we fit everything in. But do we give enough thought to the family’s ‘best friend’? To take or not to take…that is the question.
As much enjoyment you gain relaxing at a shady site just feeling the gentle breeze around you without a care in your mind, your dog does too. Dogs love camping! But to guarantee you and your camping neighbors aren’t ripping their hair out instead, the family needs to think about what is required when camping with canines.
The first thought should be, are we able to care for the family dog during our trip? For example, if you are planning days of shopping, museum hopping and site seeing, consider where your pet is during these times. If left alone, will the pet be comfortable and calm? Or will they worry in a new place, whether left inside a camper or tied in the shade dogs should not be allowed to bark unattended.
Perhaps putting together a care plan is appropriate. After all, if you let the family run off to play first the dog is likely to be forgotten. Map out who will be responsible for what and when that should be done. This effort will help maintain peace and quiet for all.
Sometimes all a dog desires is to be at your side while playing at the playground or fishing at the pond. However, most dogs require time running. This is hard to achieve when in a public place with leash requirements. Consider finding a long ‘tie out’ and let the dog chase a ball or favorite toy with that attached in an open area, if the dog decides to dart at least you have something to grab. Teach your dog to run along side a bicycle or take time to go for a walk through the shady woods. You will be amazed what good exercise can do for your dogs behavior.
Ask yourself this, is my dog camping worthy? Only trustworthy, behaved and quiet dogs should be allowed in public places. You have to remember that your campsite may not be like your backyard. Camping neighbors can be closer than you think. And this may be their only chance to get away and relax all summer, be considerate of those around you.
A family can truly enjoy themselves when the ‘whole’ family is together. That is why we encourage camping with canines! Be sure you pack for your camping companion too, here some important items to remember:
- Doggie Bags – It is required to pick up after your dog both on your site and off. Keep them stashed in pockets so you always have one handy.
- Water Dish – Summer temps can really climb. Keep fresh, cool water full to ward off overheating.
- Shade – Your campsite may not have shade. An awning or canopy tent is a must.
- Leashes – A long tie-out line for allowing some freedom on site is a good idea and a 6′ walking leash is required at all times.
- Tags – It is a personal responsibility to keep your pet up to date on shots for everyone’s safety and name tags are a good idea incase of emergency.
- Dog Bed – If your pet has a favorite blanket or bed, bring it!
- Toys & Treats – Reward good behavior with love!
- Towels – If it is rainy you will be glad you are prepared!
- Brush – You never know what they will get in to!
- Flea, Tick, Mosquito Treatment – A must for summer camping.
- Food – A sealed container will keep it fresh and deter pests.