Camping with Dogs – Top Tips

Camping with dogs all the time can be a great experience. There are more dog-friendly campsites than ever before. Sure, there are some people who camp with their dogs all the time, but most of us only camp with dogs occasionally. And when we do, we want to make sure that we’re doing it safely. Dog owners want their dogs to be as comfortable and relaxed as possible when camping or travelling. They also want them to be safe from the dangers of the outdoors. It’s not easy to do this when you need both of these things at once! Imagine taking your dog into the bush, miles away from civilisation. You don’t want them going crazy or being ripped apart by a predator while they’re trying to relax. This article will help you keep your dog happy and relaxed while on a trip or camping out off-grid. Camping with dogs brings other benefits like companionship and protection.

Here are some tips on camping with dogs in Australia:

1. Choose the right campsite

Not all campsites are created equal when it comes to accommodating dogs. When you’re searching for the perfect spot to set up camp, make sure to check the campsite’s pet policy to ensure your pooch is welcome. Some things to look for in a dog-friendly campsite include off-leash areas, plenty of space to run around, and access to water.

2. Get your dog used to camping

If your dog has never been camping before, it’s a good idea to get them used to the idea before you head off on your trip. Start by pitching a tent in your backyard and letting your dog explore it. Then, take them on a few short camping trips to get them comfortable with sleeping in a tent and being in new surroundings.

3. Make sure your dog is vaccinated

Before you go camping with your dog, make sure that they are up to date with their vaccinations. This will help protect them from any diseases that they might come into contact with while camping. Start with tick prevention before you head off. Ehrlichiosis disease is a killer if your dog gets bitten by an infected brown dog tick. 1080 baits and ehrlichiosis are most camper’s fear when travelling with dogs.

4. Keep your dog on a leash

When you’re camping with your dog, it’s important to keep them on a leash at all times. Put on a leash with a name tag and phone number. This will help to recover them if they manage to escape from camp. When you’re ready to turn in for the night, put your dog in their bed and make sure the area around them is clear of any hazards.

5. Bring the essentials

Just like you need to pack your own essentials for a camping trip, you’ll also need to make sure you have everything your dog needs. This includes things like food, water, bowls, a bed or mat, toys, a leash, an extra collar and waste bags. When you’re packing up the car, be sure to put your dog’s things in an easily accessible spot so that you can grab them quickly if you need to. Consider a muzzle to prevent 1080 poisoning and bottled water so your dog won’t have to drink water that might give it a tummy upset. One important thing to remember is that even if baits are toxic to an animal, the animal may not be interested in eating it, so it’s effectively safe. 1080 baits are tailor made for the target species. Also, and quite often, foxes and wild dogs can eat up all the baits in the first few days, long before other animals even get the chance. A dog harness for hitching will also come in handy. You might also consider shoes for your dogs. Australia is not a friendly place when it comes to prickles, burrs, bindis etc.

6. Monitor your dog’s activities.

There are a lot of activities to do at a campsite but you have to censor these activities. There are harmful bacteria in stagnant water, so it’s best to avoid letting your dog swim in it. If they do get in, make sure to wash them off afterwards. If you’re camping with a campfire, be careful that your dog doesn’t get too close. They could get burned if they get too close to the flames. When you’re camping, there’s a lot of food around that your dog might be tempted to eat. Make sure to keep an eye on your food and put it away properly so that your dog doesn’t get into it. One of the most important things to remember when camping with your dog is to never leave them alone. Not only is it unfair to your pup, but it can also be dangerous. If you need to leave the campsite for any reason, make sure to take your dog with you or ask a friend or family member to watch them.

7. Be prepared for weather changes

The weather can be unpredictable, even in the summertime. So, it’s important to be prepared for any changes that might occur while you’re camping. If you’re camping in a hot climate, make sure to pack plenty of water and a shady spot for your dog to cool off. And, if you’re camping in a cold climate, bring along a warm bed or blanket for your pup.

8. Be cautious with wildlife

There are a lot of dangerous animals in the wild, so it’s important to be cautious when you’re camping with your dog. If you see an animal that you’re not sure about, it’s best to keep your dog away from it. If you’re camping in an area with known wildlife, make sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times and be on the lookout for any signs of danger.

9. Make sure your dog is comfortable

When you’re camping, your dog is going to be outside for a long period of time. Make sure that they have a comfortable place to sleep and that they have access to water. When it’s time to set up camp, find a spot that’s level and free of debris. This will make it more comfortable for your dog and prevent them from getting tangled in its leash. Once you have your spot, set up your site and put your dog’s bed close by. If it’s warm outside, you may want to bring along a fan to keep your dog cool. Fold up a portable fence around the camp area so you can let dogs out for some freedom.

10. Be prepared for emergencies

If something happens and you need to leave your campsite, make sure that you have a plan for your dog. Have a list of emergency numbers and a plan for where you’re going to take your dog if you need to evacuate. In case of health emergencies, you will need to bring a First aid kit for your dog. You can get your emergency dog first aid kit at Fursafe.

Safety kit when camping with dogs

The things you’ll find in this kit are –

• Tick remover.
• Vet wrap as it sticks to itself and no tape is needed
• Saline vials
• Styptic crystals to stop bleeding especially if paw pad or nails get ripped off
• Make-up removers make excellent pads over wounds and clean wounds with
• 3% peroxide as a wound flush
• Artery forceps for removal of items stuck in wounds splinters etc
• High dose of vitamin C for emergency snake bite treatment
• 10 to 20 syringes for flushing the cavity and also administering oral fluid to the dehydrated dog
• Electrolyte solution for rehydrating
• Zyrtec antihistamine for stings and allergies when help is not close.

You should get some anti-nausea medication from your vet. It is also advisable to keep copies of your dog’s history and vaccination details in case needed by a vet en route.

And finally, 

Have fun! Camping with your dog can be a lot of fun. Just make sure to follow these safety tips and you’ll both have a great time. This information is brought to you by the dog-loving team at RV Buyer’s Guide.