Camping With Your Dog: How To Keep Him Safe And Happy
Photo via Pixabay by
AhiruR
Camping and hiking are great activities nearly year-round, and bringing along
your dog is a fun way to ensure you have a companion when you’re headed into the
wilderness alone. Many dogs love the outdoors and appreciate the opportunity to
run and play without boundaries; however, it’s important to remember that pets
can get injured very easily during a camping trip, and that they are potentially
in danger of being attacked by a wild animal, depending on where you are.
Keeping your pet safe and happy isn’t too difficult, however.
Being
prepared and knowledgeable about the area you’re traveling to is a good
start, so talk to your vet before making any trip and assess your dog’s health
and ability to walk or climb over long distances.
Read on to find out the best ways to keep your dog healthy and happy during a
camping trip.
Start slow
If your pet has never been on a camping trip before--or isn’t familiar with the
area you’re going to--prepare
him by spending some time at the local park and going for long walks. Build
up his strength and endurance by changing up the terrain a bit, especially if
you’re going to be doing any hiking. Take him off the leash for a bit and let
him explore on his own (as long as you’re comfortable that he’ll come back when
he’s called). If this is a big trip, or if you plan on being gone for several
days, it might be best to leave your pup at home with a pet sitter and wait
until a smaller trip comes along.
Bring everything he needs
It’s important to make sure your dog has all the vaccinations he’s due for and
that he’s all set on flea and tick medication before you set out on your trip,
especially if the weather is very warm. Bring along
extra water and pack some healthy treats in a baggie in case he needs a
pick-me-up in between meal times. Every time you take a break, let him rest,
too. It might also be a good idea to bring any paperwork regarding his shots,
especially if you’re crossing state lines.
Keep in mind that only full-sized dogs should carry packs on their backs, and
it’s a good idea to
invest in
one that’s made of comfortable material and won’t fall apart, otherwise your
dog may get blisters or suffer from chafing. Get some reflective tape or small
lights to put on the pack or on your dog’s collar so you won’t get separated at
night.
Keep him safe from predators
If you have a good-sized dog, you may only have to worry about bears or other
large animals; however, if your dog is small, there are many different types of
predators living in wooded areas and around campgrounds. Do some research on the
types of animals that live in and around your destination before you leave and
consider looking for a trainer who can help your pet learn to avoid them. Common
animals such as raccoons are becoming more aggressive with dogs in some areas,
according to
Rover.com.
As far as large predators go, remember to keep your safety a priority, as well,
because you can’t help your dog if you yourself are injured. In most cases, it’s
advisable not to engage in any physical contact with the animal.
“You have two choices—come at them like a predator with an object like a bat, or
wait for them to simply go away,” advises dog behavioral specialist Beverly
Ulbrich.
Remember that many dogs are eager to explore and may run ahead of you in their
excitement, which can cause you to become separated. If you think your dog might
not be ready to go out on his own, bring his leash so you can ensure his safety.
Author: Michael Bourke (SciCamps.org)