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Camping With The Dawgs
 Photo:
K-9 Campers: Mollie, Murphy and Mickey have enjoyed camping in Georgia,
Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas,
Kansas and Colorado.
Dogs are man's best friends, and camping with the family dog (or dogs)
allows more time for play and bonding with all members of the family. Your dog
gets to spend all his time with you, which is just what he wants. It can be a
great experience. But like all adventures, a little planning can help keep it
fun, exciting and safe for both human and K-9 campers.
As leader of his
"pack", you need to set the rules and control your dog's environment. First time
camping K-9s may need some adjustment. Dogs that are accustomed to being inside
or running only in their grassy yard will need exposure to rougher terrain to
toughen the pads on their paws. They also need to get used to the open spaces
and sights, sounds and smells of nature, as well as some familiarization with
other dogs so they behave while in the campsite and while hiking.
Start by
taking them to the local city park or to a state or county park for long walks.
Regular walks or hikes will also help your dog gain muscle strength and fitness
before you go camping.
If your dog is new to hiking and the outdoors, and
likes to pull ahead rather than walk with you, consider investing in a "walking
collar". Unlike traditional neck collars which pull the dog's head up, a walking
collar uses the dog's tendency to pull ahead to gently pull his head down into a
natural stopping command. A few trips around the block with a walking collar
should help you get him under control. After you've mastered hiking with the
collar, you can switch back to a regular neck collar. If you do a lot of hiking
or hike over rough terrain, remember to stop and check your dogs' feet
occasionally. Rocks, sticks and thorns can bruise or cut even the toughest foot
pads.
At the campground, remember to check about pet regulations. Although
most state and federal campgrounds, and private RV parks allow pets on leash, a
few campgrounds do not allow pets at all. Most National Parks do not allow pets
on trails, but do allow dogs in campsites and on paved roads. Dogs are also
allowed on National Forest Service trails and campsites. Most beaches have
restrictions or regulated hours for dogs, too. Be sure to check ahead before
making plans, and do your hiking in approved areas.
Campgrounds may have
areas set aside for walking your dog or an enclosed dog run to give him space to
really run free. Some campgrounds charge an extra fee for your pet as well.
Remember to pick up after your dog, especially in campgrounds and along trails.
Special doggie mitts are available at pet supply stores, or you can use plastic
grocery bags or self-seal bags. Dispose of it in approved trash containers.
A
little obedience training goes a long way while camping. Having your dog
understand, and obey, simple commands like sit, down, stay, no, and quiet can
make the camping experience more enjoyable for you, your dog and your fellow
campers. Keep your dog secured at all times. He will have to be restrained on
a leash or tie out, or confined in your RV. If he isn't accustomed to this
confinement, he may bark more than he does at home. If possible, do a few
learning experiences before the trip so he feels secure in this situation. But
never leave your pet unattended while tied out or in the RV. And although your
five-year-old may hold the dog's leash at home in your backyard, when your dog
sees his first raccoon or an unfamiliar dog, the little one won't be able to
hold on.
Your daily activities while camping will not be the same as at home,
and neither will your dog's. However, it is a good idea to keep his routine as
close as possible to what he is used to at home. Feed him at the regular times
and use the same foods and treats he gets at home. Bring along a special toy and
bedding. Just remember it will probably get dirty and need washing when you get
home. A comb and brush are a good idea to keep your dog free of tangles and
briars and to keep some of the debris out of your RV.
In the campsite dirt,
leaves and bugs will get in your dog's water dish, so you will need to change it
several times throughout the day. Remember to pack extra water for your dog
while hiking, too, and a collapsible dish so he has something to drink from. You
may want to consider a doggie backpack so your dog carries his own loadand some
of yours.
Dogs are territorial, and the campsite is their new territory. In
the campground, there are likely to be several other dogs. Your dog is going to
bark. You won't be able to prevent it, but a few simple steps can help minimize
the noise. Try to keep him where he doesn't see other dogs-away from the road,
behind your tent or camper or screened by bushes and trees.
Find a place he can
feel secure. Some like to hang out under the picnic table, under the RV or in
the back of the SUV. If you brought a crate, be sure it's in a shady place. And
no matter how friendly your dog is at home, in a new environment he may be more
aggressive. Don't let your dog intrude on other campers or allow other dogs into
your campsite without a familiarization sniff and greet.
Dogs are hunters,
and raccoons, squirrels, deer, armadillos, and even occasionally coyotes, skunks
and bears visit campgrounds looking for food. These are natural prey for your
dog, and he will instinctively react. Carefully securing your pet will prevent
him from charging off into the woods to get lost or injured. Wild visitors are
another reason not to leave your dog unattended or tied outside at night. He
could end up tangling with a wild animal and get injured. Remember to secure
your dog's food in a safe place when you are away from the campsite and at night
to reduce the attraction to unwanted visitors.
Camping and RVing are a great
way for the whole family, including your dog, to be together and enjoy lots of
fun time. With a little care and planning, your dog will have as much fun
camping and RVing as you do.
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