Camping is a cumulative experience that comes with countless fun activities that open up a person to many new opportunities and interests. It is a way of connecting with nature that is special and relaxing. Thus, an eco-friendly camping trip with your dog is a great way to explore nature and remain closer to it.
As a dog owner and lover, the joy of camping with your furry friend makes one appreciate the outdoors better, whether it is a night or two under the stars, falling asleep to the sound of wildlife, or setting up the campfire and sitting by it enjoying the landscapes. Camping with your dog strengthens the bond and encourages your four-legged friend to trust you more by participating in activities that foster a healthy mind and body.
It is important to note that not all dogs are suitable for hiking longer distances over several hours in different weather conditions. Hence, active and athletic dogs are amazing for experiencing outdoor adventures. This article discusses some of the recommendations and safety measures for having the best eco-friendly camping trip with your dog filled with fun and contentment.
Plan The Trip Ahead
Considering your canine’s needs, like any other pet-friendly vacation, taking your dog on a camping trip requires comprehensive planning. Some important aspects to ensure are to call ahead to confirm if the designated camping grounds would allow pets. Visit your veterinarian to make sure that all necessary vaccinations are taken, and if required, it is also essential to discuss the safeguard techniques against ticks and fleas.
Grooming is essential to keep your dog cool and pest-free, especially during the warm weather season; clipping the nails becomes crucial to prevent the tearing of tents, sleeping bags, and other camping equipment. To ensure safety, it is recommended to have your dog’s identification tags updated and microchipped.
Camping sites are often crammed with many people, dogs, and other pets. Thus, your dog's environment can be very different from usual, and their behaviour might differ accordingly. Hence it is recommended to introduce longer walks and short hikes to aid in socializing and in brushing up on some commands such as ‘leave it,’ ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ ‘drop it,’ and ‘come’ before going on a camping trip.
The Packing Guide
Packing for a camping trip is crucial; in addition to filling your supplies, it is also recommended to be mindful of your dog’s necessities. Some sustainable camping essentials to reduce environmental footprint include making slight changes such as opting for a dog shampoo with built in conditioner to reduce on plastic packaging and storing snacks necessary for you and canine friends in reusable bags.
Packing some outdoor-friendly toys, leashes, medications, first-aid kits, other toiletries, water bottles to keep your dog hydrated all the time, dog raincoats, boots, collar lights, sleeping pads, or beds is also essential. Making sure to keep your canine’s sleeping arrangement as familiar as possible is very helpful for the dog to snuggle and fall asleep without much trouble.
While on The Trip
Upon reaching the camping site, it is advised to relax, giving your dog some downtime from traveling. It is crucial always to maintain sight of your canine friend; many camping grounds have policies and guidelines requiring pet dogs to be secured around the clock; thus, it is vital to be thoroughly familiar with camping ground rules and procedures.
Once relaxed, indulging in some activities with your dog is helpful; keeping your dog’s triggers in mind, plan your day to nourish the bond between you two to have fun. These activities include swimming, hiking, boating, or unwinding in nature, soaking in the wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Spending time under shade whenever possible is essential to cool off from the sun.
Spending time outdoors in a different place away from home benefits your dog with desired and essential mental stimulation with a new bed, new surroundings, and an entirely new environment. Your presence assures them to explore their new surroundings with much less hesitation. Sustainable camping trips give the capability to enjoy nature while being responsible. Cleaning up after your canine friends, including their waste, is crucial to respect the great outdoors. In the absence of trash bins and garbage cans, it is advised to bury your dog’s waste in a way similar to human waste or to pack it up to dispose of it whenever feasible. If you are on a shorter trip, it is best to pack the waste; if you are on a more extended trip burying the waste is best.