Planning a camping trip but can’t decide whether to bring your pet?

Going camping doesn’t mean you have to leave your dog behind. That’s how it is! Taking your dog on a camping trip is a great way for him to get exercise, experience new sights and smells, and spend quality time with you.

While camping is fun for both you and your pet, you need to be aware of the responsibilities and precautions that come along with taking your furry friend along. Below is a list of steps to help you and your pet have a fun and safe vacation, as well as some great pet-friendly campgrounds.

Before your camping trip:
– Consider the disposition of your pet. When it’s time to go for a walk, does your pet respond with enthusiasm? Is your pet an outdoor lover or is she more comfortable curled up on a pillow at your feet? Is your pet fit? Answering all these questions in the affirmative will ensure a more enriching vacation for both of you.

– When planning your vacation, look for pet-friendly campgrounds and parks. Some national parks don’t allow pets, but there are great alternatives that offer everything a national park offers, and you can also bring your dog on vacation.

– For safety reasons, have a friend or neighbor take a picture of you and your pet on your cell phone. If you and your dog get separated, this will be helpful in identifying you as the pet’s owner.

– You’ll need up-to-date shots as well as paperwork from your vet, so plan to make an appointment shortly before your vacation date. Please keep a copy of the documentation with you in case a park or campground official requests it.

– Go to the hardware store and pick up an extra set of dog tags with the exact address and number of the campsite where you and your dog will be staying.

– Microchipping your dog and registering it is always a good idea. If they ever break up, this could be the difference in whether or not she ever sees her best friend again. Eighty percent of all lost dogs are never reunited with their owners. The first thing the local shelter will do is scan your dog for a microchip.

– If you go by car to the campsite, secure your pet in the car, either with a harness or in a cage. In the event of an accident, these products act like a seat belt and will keep your dog safe. If you are transporting the dog by truck, it is imperative that you carry your pet during transport. There have been many horror stories of dogs jumping out of the back of truck beds and sustaining serious or fatal injuries. A strap is NOT an alternative.

– Be sure to pack 2 straps with a maximum length of 6 feet, some towels and a brush to help against dirt and bugs you may find on the trip. Don’t forget your pet food and plenty of bags to clean up after your pet.

– Another great idea is to place a bell on your pet’s collar. (A rattle will work fine.) This way you can hear your pet no matter where you are. GPS trackers are fine, but you may not want to bring your laptop with you, so this device might not be as useful as it would be around town.

– If you plan on having your dog sleep outside the tent, be sure to bring a dog bed or your favorite sleeping device. This will make them feel more comfortable and keep them a little cleaner. Also, bring a sturdy rope or anchor to tie up your pet while you sleep.

– You and your dog will need a lot of water, so be sure to plan accordingly. A convenient alternative to water for your dog would be a product called Waterbites. It’s easy to carry, doesn’t spill, keeps your dog fully hydrated, and comes in a great meaty flavor that your dog is sure to enjoy.

During your camping trip:

– When choosing a place to camp, try to choose a place with a shaded area, especially during summer times. Your dog will be exposed to a lot of heat during the trip and it is important that he stays cool.

– Pick up after your dog! This is the cardinal rule of camping with your dog and one of the reasons many parks don’t allow pets. Let’s try to change these perceptions, one tablespoon at a time.

– Try to keep barking to a minimum. Quiet hours generally start around 10 p.m. in most parks and are strictly enforced. If barking is a problem, try to see a specialist before you leave.

– When camping with your pet, NEVER leave it alone.

Some fun activities like swimming and/or walking are perfect to do with your dog. Here are a couple of tips when participating in these activities:

Swimming:

– Unless your dog likes to swim, don’t throw him in the water. As excited as the two are, it’s a new environment for them and it may take some getting used to. Get in the water first and toss a ball around to help encourage the process.

– Bring plenty of fresh drinking water and a portable water bowl. Even freshwater lakes and streams can contain different bacteria and parasites that can be harmful if ingested.

– Make sure your dog always has an exit route. Some dogs are so excited to jump into the water that they don’t always know the best way to get back on land. Jumping off a dock or boat is a perfect example of this. Try to start in shallow water where they are not completely submerged.

– Depending on where you camp, always watch out for other animals. Especially in the southeast, alligators tend to reside near the shores of the great lakes. Snakes can also be a concern. Check beforehand and ask park officials. The most important thing is to respect posted warning signs. They are there to prevent accidents and keep you and your pet safe.

– If you plan to fish with your dog, be sure to keep all fishing accessories out of your dog’s reach. Cutting a hook from a dog’s leg would certainly not be fun for either of them.

– After swimming, be sure to clean your dog’s ears well. Failure to do this could introduce bacteria into the ear canal, leading to painful ear infections.

Hiking:

– Unlike the relaxation time you might have camping with your dog, hiking is a physically strenuous activity. It is recommended that when you see your veterinarian for his health exam, you do a physical exam on your dog to make sure he is healthy enough to walk. Obviously age and condition would also play a role in your decision to take your pet on a walk.

– Keep your dog on a leash and as close as possible at all times. Try not to let him stray more than 4 feet from his side. This is required on the trails at most dog parks.

– Unlike your house, you may find plants or trees that your dog is not normally exposed to. Don’t let them near these new plants unless you recognize them. Poison ivy affects dogs just like it affects humans. Also, you may come across bushes with berries that your pet should not eat. The last thing you want on your vacation is an emergency trip to the animal hospital.

– Always be on the lookout for wildlife and use good judgment. If you see an animal your dog shouldn’t be interacting with, make sure the two of you keep a good distance.

Here are some examples of great pet-friendly national parks:

Grand Canyon National Park: Leashed pets are allowed in the park and on some designated hiking trails.

Yosemite National Park – Pets are allowed in most campgrounds, paved roads, and built-up areas.

Yellow Stone National Park: Pets are allowed in any area within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. They are prohibited from entering the field or any trails due to wildlife activity.

Acadia National Park: There are 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of hayrides in the park where pets are allowed. The two swimming beaches (Sand Beach and Echo Lake) are also pet-friendly except May 15-September 15.

Smoky Mountain National Park: Dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roadways, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are only allowed on two short walking trails: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.

Rocky Mountain National Park – Pets are allowed in Rocky Mountain National Park, however they are NOT allowed on the trails or in the back country. They are only allowed in areas that are accessible to vehicles, including roadsides, parking areas, picnic areas, and campgrounds.

Big Bend National Park: Pets are NOT allowed on trails, roads, or rivers. Basically, your pet can only go where your car can go.