6 Health and Safety Tips for Camping with Your Dog
Heading out with your pup? These 6 camping tips cover flea and tick prevention, what to pack, campsite safety, and keeping your dog warm at night.
Whatever the season, outdoor activities, like camping and hiking, beckon. Your dog, of course, is the perfect companion to explore new spots and enjoy new adventures with. Although the great wide open is a dog’s natural environment, there are a number of best practices you should follow when you're in the wilderness with your pup. In this article, we’ll go over health and safety tips for camping with your four-legged friends.
1. Protect pet health by talking to your vet about flea and tick prevention
Before taking a camping trip with your pet, consider your dog’s flea and tick prevention regimen. Fleas and ticks exist in our backyards, but they are far more pervasive in open spaces. Talk to your veterinarian about where you’ll be camping, the conditions in the region, and the overall health of your dog. If you have a pet insurance plan offered by Pets Best Insurance with optional routine care, a portion of your flea and tick treatment may be eligible for reimbursement.
2. Take a doggie camping bag and keep a checklist inside
Designate a sturdy canvas bag as your doggie camping bag and keep a checklist inside it year-round so you won’t forget any important camping items. Your camping list should include:
- Plenty of food and water
- Food and water bowls
- Pet medications
- A variety of collars and leashes
- Dog bedding and blankets
- Pet first aid kit
- Pet insect repellent
- Warm dog clothing and booties
- A tie-out stake
3. Pack extra dog food
Camping activities can burn extra calories. If your dog has had an especially active day, give them a generous amount of food. It never hurts to bring two containers of food with you in case one becomes wet or is gobbled up by a woodland creature. Don’t be alarmed if your dog skips meals. For some animals, the stress of travel can suppress their appetite. However, if your pet’s appetite isn’t back to normal after the trip is over, take your dog to your veterinarian to make sure there isn’t an underlying pet health issue.