Camping is one of America’s favorite summer pastimes. A recent survey found that the average camper makes 5 trips a year, traveling about 190 miles from home, typically. In 2011 alone, 42.5 million people went camping, for a whopping total of 534 million camping days! The most popular form of camping was reported to be in tents- 86% of campers go for this option.
If you’re a dog owner, you know the special frustration of deciding what to do when you go on vacation. Do you take them with you and plan around their presence, or send them to a boarding facility and stress them by being separated from you? Camping with your dog requires some extra planning, but is by no means impossible. Read on for some tips on making your camping vacation with Fido easier.
- First, check with your desired campground and make sure they allow pets, as well as asking about any rules applying to pets. Many do, with the stipulation that dogs stay on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
- Check with your vet. Tell them you are planning a camping trip and see what they recommend. At the very least, make sure your dog is rabies vaccinated and protected against fleas, ticks, and heartworm.
- Make sure your dog’s tags are completely up to date with their information- including the cell number you will be using once at the camp sites. Consider a microchip for an added layer of protection, and make sure it is registered.
- Pack for your dog, since he or she can’t for him or herself. Bring enough food for the entire stay and make sure you have a source of fresh water- never, ever allow your dog to drink from standing pools of water! Don’t forget bedding for the dog, whatever the sleeping arrangements, and copies of their health records in case of emergency, especially if your campground is in another state. Think about the essentials you use every day with your dog such as their leash, carrier, harness, etc.
