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Take Your Dog Camping

posted by AlumCreek @ 2:38am, Monday 11 July 2011.

Taking the dog along on a camping trip can be great fun for both the family AND the dog. It's is a 'full-on assault' to your doggies senses. So many new smells and new things to hear and see will make your trusty friend a very happy camper (no pun intended!). Your dog will notice many things that most people would not. This is great for finding those hidden gems that can turn an ordinary camp into a memorable experience. You'll find that your dog's nose is busy sniffing everything, the eyes are filled with wonder and excitement and even your dogs posture will be more confident and happy! If you plan to take your dog an your next camping trip, then read on to discover some things you can do to ensure that everyone, including the dog, has a great and more worry-free experience.

Unless you plan to have your dog closed up in your RV or camper the whole time, there are a couple of things you need to be able to do. You need to be able to physically restrain your dog from chasing other dogs and animals. If you have never taken your dog out camping you can pretty much be assured that he will want to chase things. It is also important that you prevent the dog from being a nuisance to other campers! There is nothing worse than coming back from an exhausting hike or excursion and then having to put up with a dog barking and raising a fuss. It's extremely annoying so don't let your dog be the cause of it! Also be sure to clean up after your dog. Not only is it inconsiderate to not do so, but you might also end up paying a fine if you don't.

If you're not used to bringing the dog along, it can be easy to forget some of the essentials you'll need to pack. Make sure you bring his leash and a tether. You should also bring a muzzle. Even if your dog isn't aggressive, a muzzle will prevent him from biting you while you are trying to aid him if he's injured. If you're in a tent and it's going to get cold or wet over night, then consider bringing some bedding and a blanket for your trusty friend. He'll be glad you did. Your dog will be tempted to drink from streams and brooks but it's not always a good idea to let him do that as it could be contaminated. If you are bringing water for you and your family, make sure you include some for your dog as well. You should also consider putting the dogs food into a sealed container because other animals will be attracted to the smell of it. Not only might they eat all of your dogs food, they might cause an highly undesirable confrontation.

Even if your dog is well behaved and non-aggressive, you could still encounter another dog or animal that is not so easy-going. If this happens, you'll need to have something to break up a fight should it occur. Many dog trainers recommend using a plastic water bottle made from the crinkly plastic. It doesn't hurt when you strike them with it but sure makes a lot of noise, and that's what is needed. You could also try an air horn or MILD pepper spray such as Halt!.

After the trip is over, be sure to inspect your dog for ticks and other unwanted pests. Also look for any minor injuries such as a cut or damaged claw. These can lead to nasty infections if left untreated.

If you have planned and prepared well for having your dog along on your camping trip, you should wind up with the fun and memorable experience you had in mind when you decided to bring him along.

* Disclaimer. The author of this blog is not an instructor or authority in any of these areas. You are responsible for the health and welfare of your dog. This document is the author's attempt to help you have a more pleasant camp with your dog.