Camping with your dog can be one of the most enjoyable bonding experiences you’ll ever share with your dog. I have very fond memories of camping, hiking and canoeing with my golden retriever, Red Dog, who died a couple of years ago at the ripe old age of fourteen! I like to think that having fun outdoors with her was what helped to extend her years and gave her a rich life full of adventure. Red Dog was there with me nearly every single time I canoed on rivers (including the one time I tipped over!), she huddled with me in my tent to brave out a sudden spring storm, and she helped me find my way out of the woods more than a few times. She even enjoyed helping me gather kindling wood for the campfire!
If you plan to bring your beloved dog along on your next outdoor adventure, don’t forget to pack some essential items that will make the trip smoother for both you and your dog.
Add these items to your checklist:
Collar/Harness and Leash
Just because you plan to be out in the woods does not mean you are exempt from all laws governing pet ownership. Many areas have leash laws by which you must abide. Also, as you drive to the camping area, you may need to stop to walk your dog along the way. It is ALWAYS a good idea to have a leash in your car when traveling with your dog.
Bells!
Attaching bells to your dogs collar will help you keep track of his whereabouts and may help to ward off animals like bears, mountain lions, and wolves.
Tie-out Cord
When camping at an official government campground, you are likely to run into other campers. If you have one of those clingy, extremely loyal dogs, you may not need this item. However, if your dog is anything like mine -- especially friendly toward strangers -- it is a good idea to confine your dog to your immediate campsite. (A good idea also if your dog is especially unfriendly toward strangers or other dogs.) A long tie-out cord can prevent your dog from wandering into your neighbor’s tent or jumping into their camper with them. Believe me, it can happen!
Rabies Tags and/or Rabies Vaccination Certificate
In the off-chance that you may need to unexpectedly board your dog due to any illness, injury or other unforeseen event, having some proof of rabies inoculation will save you time and headaches. It is not necessary to carry the certificate on your person but it doesn’t hurt to have a copy in your car’s glove compartment.
Dog Food
(and can opener, if needed)
It’s a good idea to bring your dog’s regular dog food along on the trip to prevent any stomach or intestinal upset that could result from a sudden change in diet. Keep in mind , however, that the excitement of the trip itself may affect your dog’s appetite. Red Dog’s appetite (and energy levels) were always accelerated during our excursions; meanwhile my ever-hungry German Shepherd dog refused to eat his food altogether while camping. He always seemed concerned that he was missing out on something more interesting. For this reason, you might want to bring along some “special food” for your dog, in case he turns his nose up at his regular fare. I usually pack a can opener and a couple cans of wet dog food to mix in with the dry food -- to jumpstart my finicky dog’s appetite. And it works like a charm! You can also share some of your table scraps with your dog; they love beef bones, potato skins, trimmed fat, and drippings from cooked meat. Just be sure to keep the canine away from chicken, fish and pork bones, spoiled foods, coffee grounds, and chocolate. Remember: Always keep your trash in a waterproof bag hanging high away from bears, mountain lions and other furry creatures.
Extra Water
If your campsite does not provide running water or a well pump, be sure to bring along plenty of extra water for your dog. Running around in the woods on a hot afternoon will dehydrate your dog in no time at all. Melted ice water from your food cooler may be given to your dog but only if it has not been contaminated by raw meat or spoiled food. You can also allow your dog to drink from a running stream, river or spring, but do not allow him to drink from stagnant water and mud puddles. Insect eggs and bacteria present in standing water could cause your dog to develop internal parasites or a wide variety of bacterial diseases or infection.
Food and Water Bowls
Collapsible or stacking dogs bowls can be very handy while camping. I prefer to use collapsible bowls, with the food bowl having a cinch-top for storing dry dog food. The company Ruff Wear makes a great set of bowls!
32 oz Go Between Cinch Top Travel Bowl by Ruff Wear
First Aid Supplies: Nail Trimmers, cornstarch, elastic bandage, roll of gauze with tape and tweezers
When exploring the woods, there is a chance that your dog may step on something that could injure his nails or the pads of his feet. Check his feet often, including between the toes, and treat immediately if he shows signs of limping, chewing or excessive licking. Nail trimmers can be super-handy if your dog cracks a toe nail. Cornstarch is like a natural styptic powder and will do wonders to stop bleeding -- not just for your dog but also for you! Long elastic bandages (also known as ACE bandages) and a roll of gauze can help in a pinch if your dog has a nasty encounter with a thorn brush. Finally, tweezers will help in removing any splinters or ticks.
Medication
Is your dog on any medication? If so, be sure not to forget it!
Some other [very optional] ideas….
Toys
Bring along a couple of your dog’s favorite toys for him to chew on and to play fetch. A nice chew toy can busy your dog during the down time spent traveling in your car. Collapsible flying discs can be loads of fun for the dog that likes interactive exercise. Some will even float, allowing your dog to cool off and fetch the disc from the water.
Doggie Backpack
If you have to backpack in to your campsite, why not have your dog carry in his own gear? As long as you are careful not to overload your puppy with heavy cans and quarts of water, nearly any dog will enjoy being “put to work” in this way. Be mindful that you pack the bag evenly so the left and right sides weigh an equal amount and its contents do not poke him in the ribs.
Ruff Wear Approach Dog Backpack II (M and L) (Fall 07)
Sleeping Mat
Some dog backpacks include a sleeping mat. So as long as your dog is lugging his own gear, why not give him a comfortable place to sleep? Look for a mat that comes with a waterproof compression storage bag, is machine washable, and has padding on one side with a waterproof underside.
Personal Floatation Device
Will this be the first time canoeing for you or your dog? Are you unsure of your dog’s swimming abilities? If so, you may want to consider getting a life jacket for your dog. Canoe outfitters will happily provide a life jacket for you but you’ll have to provide one for the pooch. I recommend you get one in a bright color, such as florescent orange or safety yellow, as it will help you spot your dog if he gets away from you. CAUTION: Never tie your dog to the boat. He needs to be able to swim away if the boat capsizes or becomes swamped.
Dog Sweater
Small or hairless dogs may need some additional insulation during cool weather. Also keep in mind that the temperature will drop after the sun sets and your puppy will not be able to tell you if he’s uncomfortably cold.
Last but not least, don’t forget to protect your dog from heartworms, fleas and ticks. Heartworms are carried by host mosquitoes. You may choose to spray your pet with repeated applications of external insect repellants. Or, before you leave on your trip, you can use internal preventatives such as Heartgard (for heartworms) or Frontline (for fleas and ticks).
If you plan to bring your beloved dog along on your next outdoor adventure, don’t forget to pack some essential items that will make the trip smoother for both you and your dog.
Add these items to your checklist:
Collar/Harness and Leash
Just because you plan to be out in the woods does not mean you are exempt from all laws governing pet ownership. Many areas have leash laws by which you must abide. Also, as you drive to the camping area, you may need to stop to walk your dog along the way. It is ALWAYS a good idea to have a leash in your car when traveling with your dog.
Bells!
Attaching bells to your dogs collar will help you keep track of his whereabouts and may help to ward off animals like bears, mountain lions, and wolves.
Tie-out Cord
When camping at an official government campground, you are likely to run into other campers. If you have one of those clingy, extremely loyal dogs, you may not need this item. However, if your dog is anything like mine -- especially friendly toward strangers -- it is a good idea to confine your dog to your immediate campsite. (A good idea also if your dog is especially unfriendly toward strangers or other dogs.) A long tie-out cord can prevent your dog from wandering into your neighbor’s tent or jumping into their camper with them. Believe me, it can happen!
Rabies Tags and/or Rabies Vaccination Certificate
In the off-chance that you may need to unexpectedly board your dog due to any illness, injury or other unforeseen event, having some proof of rabies inoculation will save you time and headaches. It is not necessary to carry the certificate on your person but it doesn’t hurt to have a copy in your car’s glove compartment.
Dog Food
(and can opener, if needed)
It’s a good idea to bring your dog’s regular dog food along on the trip to prevent any stomach or intestinal upset that could result from a sudden change in diet. Keep in mind , however, that the excitement of the trip itself may affect your dog’s appetite. Red Dog’s appetite (and energy levels) were always accelerated during our excursions; meanwhile my ever-hungry German Shepherd dog refused to eat his food altogether while camping. He always seemed concerned that he was missing out on something more interesting. For this reason, you might want to bring along some “special food” for your dog, in case he turns his nose up at his regular fare. I usually pack a can opener and a couple cans of wet dog food to mix in with the dry food -- to jumpstart my finicky dog’s appetite. And it works like a charm! You can also share some of your table scraps with your dog; they love beef bones, potato skins, trimmed fat, and drippings from cooked meat. Just be sure to keep the canine away from chicken, fish and pork bones, spoiled foods, coffee grounds, and chocolate. Remember: Always keep your trash in a waterproof bag hanging high away from bears, mountain lions and other furry creatures.
Extra Water
If your campsite does not provide running water or a well pump, be sure to bring along plenty of extra water for your dog. Running around in the woods on a hot afternoon will dehydrate your dog in no time at all. Melted ice water from your food cooler may be given to your dog but only if it has not been contaminated by raw meat or spoiled food. You can also allow your dog to drink from a running stream, river or spring, but do not allow him to drink from stagnant water and mud puddles. Insect eggs and bacteria present in standing water could cause your dog to develop internal parasites or a wide variety of bacterial diseases or infection.
Food and Water Bowls
Collapsible or stacking dogs bowls can be very handy while camping. I prefer to use collapsible bowls, with the food bowl having a cinch-top for storing dry dog food. The company Ruff Wear makes a great set of bowls!
32 oz Go Between Cinch Top Travel Bowl by Ruff Wear
First Aid Supplies: Nail Trimmers, cornstarch, elastic bandage, roll of gauze with tape and tweezers
When exploring the woods, there is a chance that your dog may step on something that could injure his nails or the pads of his feet. Check his feet often, including between the toes, and treat immediately if he shows signs of limping, chewing or excessive licking. Nail trimmers can be super-handy if your dog cracks a toe nail. Cornstarch is like a natural styptic powder and will do wonders to stop bleeding -- not just for your dog but also for you! Long elastic bandages (also known as ACE bandages) and a roll of gauze can help in a pinch if your dog has a nasty encounter with a thorn brush. Finally, tweezers will help in removing any splinters or ticks.
Medication
Is your dog on any medication? If so, be sure not to forget it!
Some other [very optional] ideas….
Toys
Bring along a couple of your dog’s favorite toys for him to chew on and to play fetch. A nice chew toy can busy your dog during the down time spent traveling in your car. Collapsible flying discs can be loads of fun for the dog that likes interactive exercise. Some will even float, allowing your dog to cool off and fetch the disc from the water.
Doggie Backpack
If you have to backpack in to your campsite, why not have your dog carry in his own gear? As long as you are careful not to overload your puppy with heavy cans and quarts of water, nearly any dog will enjoy being “put to work” in this way. Be mindful that you pack the bag evenly so the left and right sides weigh an equal amount and its contents do not poke him in the ribs.
Ruff Wear Approach Dog Backpack II (M and L) (Fall 07)
Sleeping Mat
Some dog backpacks include a sleeping mat. So as long as your dog is lugging his own gear, why not give him a comfortable place to sleep? Look for a mat that comes with a waterproof compression storage bag, is machine washable, and has padding on one side with a waterproof underside.
Personal Floatation Device
Will this be the first time canoeing for you or your dog? Are you unsure of your dog’s swimming abilities? If so, you may want to consider getting a life jacket for your dog. Canoe outfitters will happily provide a life jacket for you but you’ll have to provide one for the pooch. I recommend you get one in a bright color, such as florescent orange or safety yellow, as it will help you spot your dog if he gets away from you. CAUTION: Never tie your dog to the boat. He needs to be able to swim away if the boat capsizes or becomes swamped.
Dog Sweater
Small or hairless dogs may need some additional insulation during cool weather. Also keep in mind that the temperature will drop after the sun sets and your puppy will not be able to tell you if he’s uncomfortably cold.
Last but not least, don’t forget to protect your dog from heartworms, fleas and ticks. Heartworms are carried by host mosquitoes. You may choose to spray your pet with repeated applications of external insect repellants. Or, before you leave on your trip, you can use internal preventatives such as Heartgard (for heartworms) or Frontline (for fleas and ticks).
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