Dogs and the Outdoors: 5 Rules when Camping with your Dog

Hiking, biking and camping in the great outdoors can be a very rewarding experience for dogs and their human companions. Keep these simple rules in mind to ensure a safe and happy trip for both of you.

Know Your Dog

Most pet owners are aware of their dog's disposition toward strangers and unfamiliar environments.

However, new situations can sometimes be overwhelming for even the easiest mannered canine, which is why it's important to stay in touch with the signals your dog is sending. If your dog shows signs of stress or aggression, take her back to the campsite immediately and spend some time helping her relax. Never let your pet off leash if there is any possibility of running off or attacking another animal. It's always a good idea to go over some basic commands before taking the leash off for the first time in a new environment. This sets the tone and helps your pet focus.
Vaccines and Licenses

Due to the likely exposure to wild animals and their droppings, it is essential to have your dog current on shots. Ask your vet or do some research into what diseases and insects might be present in the area you're traveling to.

Licenses are a given at home and away. A temporary tag with the campground name, site number, ranger station phone number and your current contact info can prove invaluable if your dog does run off and can't find their way back.

The Comforts of Home

Doggy's favorite toys, food dishes and bedding can be great comforts in a new environment. Spend an hour or so each day doing some of the same activities you both enjoy back home, and your pet will feel more secure and have an easier time adjusting to new situations.

Courteous Camping

Many campgrounds across the country are now closed to dogs due to the perception that they are loud, dangerous and undisciplined.

Doing your part to give our dogs back their good name as great camping companions is easy and rewarding. Always pick up after your pet, keep her quiet after sundown, don't her to run after other people or dogs and stay clear of restricted areas helps everyone have a more enjoyable experience.

Even the most well intentioned pet owners can overlook basic etiquette when distracted by the experience of nature. Looking after our dogs and cleaning up behind them while on vacation sets a good example for other pet parents and leaves a positive impression with those who do not have pets of their own.

First Aid for Fido

Several types of K-9 emergency kits are available from various retail and online sources. If you don't want to pack an extra kit, you can easily add a few necessary items to your own first aid box. The following items can be found at local pet supply stores and veterinary offices.

• Healing Salve & Rescue Remedy—For soothing abrasions and anxiety.
• Small Scissors & Septic Powder—Useful for cuts, scrapes and briars.
• Vet Wrap & Sam Splints—For stabilizing sprains and fractures.
• Needle Nosed Pliers & Tick Release.
• Aspirin & Benadryl—For painful cuts, bruises and allergic reactions.
• Extra Water & High Calorie Treats—For emergency situations.
• Halt! or Air Horn—Capsaicin based pepper spray causes extreme temporary discomfort if sprayed at an attacking animal. Air Horns are a safer alternative and effectively startle aggressive dogs.
• SafeJourney All Natural Dry Shampoo--for keeping your companion clean during the journey. You can purchase SafeJourney All Natural Dry Shampoo at www.safejourneypetsitting.com or by calling 888-837-4447.

If you remember that everything you love about the outdoors is that much more exciting for your dog, you will be able to anticipate and prepare for unexpected situations. We wish you and your pets happy camping and SafeJourney.