Hi there! Today we are going to talk about camping with dogs.
I know what you are going to say, this is easier said than done.
Some of the best camping trips I have taken have been with my furry friend Wednesday.
If you’re new to this concept, that’s ok, I am here to point out a few things as you plan your adventure. We will discuss in this article whether or not your pup is ready for camping, how to find dog-friendly campsites, how to keep your dog safe, and the proper etiquette for traversing the campsite.
This will be a short list of things to know before you hit the campsite or trail, plus some things you will need to make camping with dogs fun, safe, and easier for everyone.
Without further ado, let’s go camping!
For more information on camping with dogs, please check out KOA’s website. They have great information on this topic. You can find them right here.
Camping with Dogs 101: Determine if You Can Bring Your Dog
Before you take off for your Maiden Voyage with your dog, it’s important to consider if they’ll even enjoy camping with you in the first place.
While many dogs love spending time outside, some might not like being outside overnight. Let’s be honest, a warm bed inside their crate might sound better than your tent.
Other dogs might be older and have health and mobility issues too. Your dog might not be trained enough to be calm at a campground that has new scenery and sounds.
If this is the case, you might be better off leaving your furry friend at home.
Here are a few things to consider to determine if your dog is ready for camping….
Puppies and very young dogs.
Senior dogs with health or mobility issues.
Dogs who haven’t completed any sort of training.
If your dog is on board to go camping with you, then you’ll want to assess their physicality and comfort levels.
My advice to you is; Be realistic.
Will it be safe?
Will it be comfortable?
If your dog will adapt to camping, plan a few day trips or picnics at a local park prior to booking a campsite.
See how your dog responds to being outside in a new environment. This will help you determine if they’re ready or not for an overnight or weekend trip.
How To Find a Dog-Friendly Campsite
Don’t be the person that drives a hundred miles from the house and find out the campsite does not allow pets.
First and foremost, be sure to call ahead or research online to make sure the trails and campgrounds are dog-friendly.
Generally speaking, most campsites in Oklahoma only welcome restrained pets. It’s also a good idea to find out the specific rules in advance, such as the number of pets permitted and leash laws.
Doing your research on the front end will help you to know what to expect and prevent any unwanted surprises.
Keep it Safe
As you embark on your journey, it’s time to establish some safe practices.
As we all know, nature can be unpredictable and so can our dogs. Be ready for anything and everything.
When at the campsite, make sure to keep your dog near you and never unsupervised.
Be sure to keep your dog’s microchip info and tags up-to-date. To get a better night’s rest, bring the GPS collar tracker.
When at the campsite, be sure to keep your dog safely confined in the crate while cooking your food or pitching your tent.
Respect the Leash Laws
This is a no-brainer for me. Respecting the leash laws are extremely important for keeping not only you and your furry friend safe but everyone else at the campsite and on the trail.
Just like Nike- Just do it!
Now you might have some areas that are designated off-leash, you’ll want to make those judgment calls on your own. But you should consider the conditions of the campsite, terrain, nearby wildlife, and your dog’s persona.
Etiquette for Camping with Dogs
Always be courteous to your fellow campers and hikers. Seems simple, but not too many practice this simple concept.
In addition to respecting the leash laws, you’ll want to properly dispose of your dog’s waste.
I discussed this a few months ago in my article, leave no trace behind. The same rules apply to your dogs.
Depending how close you are to other campers, it might be best to have your dog use the bathroom farther away from people in these designated areas.
Also, be mindful of your dog’s barking- whether it is frequent or loud. Bring plenty of treats and their favorite toys to combat those issues.
And if you like to go swimming in the warmer months, keep them close and in a life jacket. My dog Wednesday likes to make friends with everyone in the water, just confirm with fellow swimmers that this will be ok for them to paddle and say hello.
What to bring:
Here are a few things I bring before I leave the house if I go camping with my dog.
Dog food and treats- I keep it in a sealed container where no wildlife has access to it.
A collapsible water bowl- I suggest a lightweight version and easy to clean as you go.
Poop Bags- Again Leave no Trace no matter what
Pet wipes- Get them cleaned up after their swim and before they sleep with you in the tent.
Leash- Don’t leave home without it. I even carry a backup in my truck in case I misplace it.
First aid kit- Buy them at Walmart or Petsmart. Always come prepared.
Thoughts & Takeaways
And that will wrap things up for today. Camping with dogs can be a lot of fun, but on the flipside it can be a nightmare if you’re not prepared. By knowing the rules and regulations of the campsite and knowing how to make it fun and safe, you can have a great weekend with your furry friend. I hope this article was helpful. Please share your safe and fun practices in the comment section below.
-CT
One Response
Miss Wednesday❤️❤️❤️