Taking Dogs Camping

Safety Tips and Packing Ideas for Camping with Dogs

May 29, 2009 Carly Duff

Camping is a great way for family to get together with nature and relax. Dogs enjoy the outdoors as well and can be brought along to the camping trip.

Camp fire, hot dogs, marshmallows and swimsuits are some of the items that makes camping a joy. Different packing items need to be brought when bringing a dog along.

Packing for a Dog

Packing for a dog to go camping isn't very difficult but there are certain items a dog must have to enjoy camping and stay safe and healthy.

  • Water:

  1. Plenty of bottled water needs to be brought for the dog to drink to ensure hydration. Water is sold in gallon jugs at supermarkets.
  2. Bringing extra water is a must because it guarantees enough water for the dog during the camping trip.

  • Food:

  1. Packing at least five cups of dog food for every camping day is a safe amount depending on the size and appetite of the dog.
  2. Bringing extra food is very important so the dog won't ever run out.

  • Food and Water Bowls:

  1. The dog's food and water bowls need to be packed so the dog has something to eat and drink out of.
  2. Bringing his or her normal food and water dishes also gives a sense of home and comfort to the dog.

  • Safety Jacket:

  1. When camping near water, a safety jacket needs to be brought along for the dog.
  2. Dogs have a natural instinct to swim. Swimming too much - especially when a dog isn't used to swimming everyday - could make the dog tired and weak very quickly.
  3. Before planning a swim, a safety jacket needs to be applied securely to the dog to ensure all safety.
  4. Safety jackets can be found at specialty pet stores.

  • Collar, Tags and Leash:

  1. Most campsites have a strict rule of having a dog on a leash at all times to keep from getting lost.
  2. A dog having a collar with tags is very important just in case the dog wanders off.

  • Waste Disposal Items:

  1. Keeping campsites clean is very important which is why dog waste disposal items need to be packed with other dog supplies.
  2. "Pooper Scoopers" and plastic bags are items that make cleaning up dog waste very easy.

  • Dog Toys:

  1. Dog toys aren't the most necessary item to be brought camping but toys are a way to make sure the dog stays occupied.
  2. Frisbees or balls are great types of toys to be taken to a campsite for a dog.

  • Daily Medication

  1. Any medication that the dog is using on a regular basis needs to be brought along.
Final Tips When Bringing a Dog Camping

After packing the above items, a dog is almost ready to go camping. Campsite rules and regulations for dogs need to be reviewed and understood before taking a dog camping.

A dog needs to feel comfortable around other people and animals. If a dog doesn't feel comfortable around other people and animals it will make the camping experience miserable for not only the dog and the dog's owner but for other campers as well.

Packing the right items for a dog is a must when bringing a dog camping to guarantee the best health, happiness and safety for the dog.

The copyright of the article Taking Dogs Camping in Dogs is owned by Carly Duff. Permission to republish Taking Dogs Camping in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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