Packing List For Camping With Dogs
We can’t imagine going camping without our dogs. They are members of our family after all. Their happy spirit brightens our lives at home and on a camping trip. Here is a packing list of what you’ll need to bring for camping with dogs. Having what you need for your dog, we improve his experience and lessen any stress on him as well as your family.
Camping with dogs, a packing list.
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First things first…
Know the rules of where you’ll be staying and what they require.
When making reservations, ask about the campground’s policy on pets. If you are camping in State or National parks or public land you can find the rules on their websites.
ID tags and vaccination records
Have up to date ID tags on your dog at all times. If he has a microchip, all the better. It’s also a good idea to add a temporary tag with the campground name and site number. Small, inexpensive luggage tags work great for this.
Bring along a copy of his vaccination records, many campgrounds require them. Google the closest emergency veterinarian in the area in case. I store the address and number in my phone. If there’s an emergency, you may not have cell coverage or time to find the nearest vet. It’s a little-added peace of mind. Also, check with your veterinarian that your dog is protected from Heartworm and has tick and flea protection.
Leashes and collars
- 6-foot walking leash plus an extra leash on hand.
- Collar and/or harness. Always have a spare.
- Longer lead for play time.
It’s a rather universal rule to leash dogs at campgrounds. It’s a good idea regardless, dogs tend to want to wander off and visit neighbors and could snag some dinner off the picnic table. You can’t blame a dog with all those new smells and the exciting new environment.
Tie-out line and stake
Setting up camp, cooking or just relaxing by the fire, you’ll want your hands-free, and a way to tie out your do your dog is essential. Campgrounds may not allow lines to be tied to trees (or there aren’t any trees), the corkscrew type stake works very well. Plan on something to attach a line to if the stake doesn’t hold (soil too soft for example). Camper or a car bumpers may work out ok, just have a plan B before you go. If you are camping with more then one dog, tie them, so they line can’t get tangled together.
Water and food dishes
We like the collapsible type because they take less up room in the camper. They double as a great hiking bowl. We always bring a few extra, just in case one springs a leak.
Food and treats
Plan on more food than you think you’ll need. You may decide to stay extra days. Dogs may burn more calories with all the fun activities during your trip and require more to eat than at home. Treats, of course, because they deserve treats and love no matter where you are. Bring plenty of their favorites.
Toys and chew toys
Bring a few favorite toys from home. This will keep your pup busy and give them a little security of home. Chew toys are excellent for keeping your dog occupied and ward off boredom. Chew toys are particularly useful when setting up and taking down camp.
Bug repellent wipes
Trust me; you’ll want some sort of pet safe bug repellent. Bugs will drive your dog foolish. My favorite is VetriScience Laboratories Vetri Repel, Natural Flea and Tick Repellent for Cats and Dogs
We originally got this brand from our vet, they work great, smell good and also sold on Amazon.
Tick Remover
Check for ticks often and get them off your dog as soon as possible with a tick remover.
First aid kit for your dog
Have a first aid kit available when camping with your dog, you never know when you’ll need it. You can purchase a ready-made kit or make your own. We have a combo kit for the dog and humans.
Mat, blanket, sleeping bag
Provide a place for your dog to be up off the ground. The ground can drop a dogs body temperature down quickly.
Towels
Your dog sure hopes for playing in the water while camping, bring towels to dry them off. We’ve yet to going camping without at least on rain shower during the trip. A wet dog in a tent isn’t fun for anyone.
Brush
We always bring a brush. It helps keep some of the fur out of the camper or tent. You’re camping! Dogs and kids are supposed to get dirty.
POOP BAGS
Don’t be those people who don’t clean up after their dogs.
Shade
Provide shade for Fido. I love this beach tent. It is open, so Halo loves it. It’s also darn cute at the campsite. We have also used a tarp tied to trees to make a shaded area. Dogs can overheat easily. I can vouch for this; I own a husky.
A few extra items
Portable Crate
Halo loves his crate. We bring it along so he’ll have a place just to chill. If he gets overtired, he get’s a little cranky. Just like a toddler, he sometimes needs to go for a nap.
Being prepared will make both you and your dog a Happy Camper
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You may also like this aricle How to keep your husky cool on hot days
Let me know what I have forgotten in this list in the comments below.
tips on keeping dogs cool in the heat here