Exploring the Great Outdoors: A Comprehensive Guide to Camping Safely and Comfortably with Your Dog

When the good weather arrives, camping is an adventure that many people enjoy, especially when they can bring along their furry companions. Dogs flourish in the great outdoors, enjoying a chance to explore, exercise, and bond with their human family. However, taking your dog on a camping trip requires careful planning to ensure both your and your dog's safety and comfort. This guide will provide tips for camping with dogs, hopefully making your outdoor experience enjoyable and unforgettable.

Preparing for Your Trip

Before you go... if this is something your dog has never done before, try a practise run at home in the garden. Being in a tent can create different sounds and is likely to be a more confined space .Check there is enough space for you and your dog and everything you both need for a comfortable camping experience. Your dog may even have to sleep with you! If your dog is used to sleeping in a crate, will you have room? Also, evaluate your dog's camping readiness. Factors such as age, temperament, and overall health play a vital role in your dog's ability to handle outdoor life.

Make sure:

• Your dog’s vaccinations and worming medication are all up to date


• Your dog has tick and flea protection


  Your dog is microchipped and the details are up to date. Also check ID tags

• If your dog is on regular medication, make sure you have ordered this well in advance from your veterinary practice

  
  

Start by selecting a dog-friendly campsite. Many campsites allow dogs but policies can vary widely. Even dog friendly sites may have specific restrictions on breeds, sizes and how many dogs you can take so it's essential to confirm these before making plans.

• If you can, book a good spot! Try and reserve a shady area with low traffic - this can lessen the chance of your dog being upset with new sounds or barking at people and other dogs passing by. If you can't find shade, bring it with you

• Confirm what the charges are for having your dog(s) with you

• Research the area where you plan to camp. Identify any dog friendly walks, beaches, or parks that welcome dogs.

• Research the veterinary services in the area. Hopefully you won't need their services but, accidents and emergencies happen when we least expect them, be prepared and have contact details to hand.

Packing the Essentials

Once your plans are set, it’s packing time. Don't forget the essentials...

Food and Water

Bring enough of your dog's normal food for the duration of the trip, plus a bit extra. If you use tinned food, remember to pack a tin opener if your brand doesn't have a puill ring to open it. Take a sealable container with you for any left over food. These can prevent such things as ants trying to get into the dog food .Most sites have a water supply for you to top up your dog's water bowl.

Take a few dog treats with you too and, don't be tempted to feed your dog food from a BBQ or an open fire cooked meal.

Always ,always have fresh water available for your dog.

Bowls

Pack a couple of bowls for food and water. Collapsible bowls are handy for saving space in the car and for popping in your bag on day trips. Remember to take a water container for your dog when out walking - an increase in daily activity can mean your dog will need more water to stay hydrated. This is especially so on warmer days.

Beds and Blankets

Having their own bed/travel bed or blankets from home can help a dog settle more easily as well as a few of their favourite toys.

First Aid Kit

Carry a dog first aid kit with you especially when out and about. It can help manage minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and insect bites. Check that all the items are in date and replenish any you have used. Make sure you have a tick remover.

Add suncream/balm for dogs with white noses, ears and for dogs with short or light coats or, those that like to sunbath belly up! DO NOT use human suncream! Many contain Zinc Oxide which is toxic for dogs. Also take some paw balm with you. Hot sand, pavements or rough terrain can cause burns/abrasions to sensetive paws. Applying a paw balm/wax can add a temporary barrier. This will need re applying if your dog heads for the water! NOTE: Avoid activities in the hottest part of the day.

Consider taking part in a dog first aid course. Allwinds deliver courses for the pet parent as well as the pet professional. Look up the courses section of our website. Courses are taught by a qualified veterinary nurse and are CPD accredited. You can also purchase dog first aid items from our shop via our website.

Towels

These are essentail for muddy paws and wet fur! Dog wipes are a good addition too.

Poo Bags

You can never have enough!! Always pick up after your dog both at the campsite and when out and about and dispose of appropriately.

Collars/Leads/Harnesses

Make sure any collars, leads and harnesses are in good working order and fit well. Take a spare lead. Also consider a long line. This can be used with a stale out pole. While at the campsite, you must keep your dog under control, this is particularly the case where campsites are situated on farms with livestock. In warmer weather, a cooling mat or portable fan will help keep your dog more comfortable. Dogs can overheat easily, so it's wise to be prepared. Also remember that the temperature in a tent can increase quickly and pose a risk for your dog. NOTE: Some Club sites don't allow a lead longer than 2m.

Packing a reflective collar/harness or a flashing light for night time walks and wees means you (and others) can see your dog even in the dark.

GPS Trackers

GPS trackers can offer peace of mind for dog parents while on hoilday by allowing you to track and monitor your dog's location while it is wearing the tracker. Choose one which is waterproof and durable for your dog's activities. There are many to choose from. We use the Pawfit 3 and can offer anyone thinking of buying this tracker discount off the tracker price (not on the subscription)-info@allwindsdogfirstaid.co.uk to find out more.

Safety Awareness

• While at the campsite, never leave your dog unattended

• Training your dog to respond to basic commands is essential for safety. Campsites can be busy, exciting places, and even dogs who love being out and about sometimes find it hard to contain their excitement Not everybody on the campsite may be a dog-lover, so your dog must respond to your commands.

• Never let your dog drink from stagnant water and be aware that lakes and ponds may be infected by blue-green algae

• Knowing what animals are nearby can help you understand potential safety issues. Check local restrictions so your dog is not endangering indigenous wildlife. Even on common-access land, restrictions often apply to dogs during spring lambing time, the bird-nesting season (April to July) or grouse shooting (August 15 to December 10)

• As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to respect nature and local wildlife

• Keep dogs away from camp fires or hot BBQ/open camp fire cooking

• If you are planning to take your dog out on the water for any length of time, they should be wearing a lifejacket.

Final Thoughts

Camping with dogs can be a rewarding experience if you take the right precautions to keep everyone safe and comfortable. By planning ahead, packing the essentials, following safety guidelines, and enjoying activities together, you can create unforgettable memories under the stars. But remember, leaving no trace is a key camping principle when you have dogs. Always clean up after yourself and your dog. Protecting the environment ensures future generations can enjoy these spaces.

Adventure awaits—happy camping!