Use These Tips To Have A Safe, Relaxing Camping Trip With Your Pet

Camping is a great way to focus on your mental health, get fresh air and unplug from technology for a while. It’s even better when you can do it with someone you love, and pets are wonderful companions on outdoor trips. Not only does it give you the opportunity to bond with your animal, it offers a fun way to get exercise together and have an adventure after a long work week.

You’ll need to keep some safety precautions in mind, however, for both you and your dog. Packing the right equipment, preparing for inclement weather, and doing some research on wildlife in the area are all good ways to start. Le Pet Luxe has you covered for quality harnesses, leashes, and protective shoes that won’t break the bank; you’ll also need the right gear for yourself and your significant other.

Plan for comfort

You don’t have to spend a ton of money on “glamping” accessories to have a comfortable camping experience. Investing in a first-rate sleeping bag is important, however, as you’ll need to be protected from the elements. Depending on where your destination is, the nights may be much colder than the days, but you can bundle up in a double sleeping bag that has enough room for both you and your loved one (or you and your dog, if he’s a snuggler). Many of these also separate into two single bags to fit your needs; read reviews online to find the best one for your trip.

Take some precautions

When researching campsites, it’s important to think about both your safety and the safety of your pet. Wild animals, extreme temperatures, and rocky terrain all hold the same dangers for your dog that they do for you. You might want a site that’s close to hiking trails, or one that’s near water for fishing; both of these require some precautions, such as having the right foot coverings and protecting against insects and the sun.

Put together a first aid kit for yourself and your pet that includes tweezers and Benadryl. Check the weather forecasts throughout your stay, as things can change quickly in many areas of the country. Be sure to bring a collapsible water bowl for your dog and keep plenty of liquids on hand for yourself, even if it’s not terribly hot outside. You might also consider a GPS tracker for your pet that offers live updates in case you get separated.

Keep your food safe

While it’s important to be prepared in the event of an accident, it’s also a good idea to take preventative measures to keep yourself and your pet safe during the trip. Food safety should be a priority, so pack mostly items that can withstand unsteady temperatures. Granola, trail mix, dried meats and fruit, and cereal bars are great options for camping. Plan for keeping all food items wrapped well to discourage curious wild animals. Bring along plenty of food and snacks for your dog, as well, making sure to wash your hands and any utensils you use both before and after handling anything you and your pet eat to prevent cross-contamination. 

Be a good neighbor

Unless you’re planning to drive to a secluded campsite in the woods, you may have fellow campers to consider, so during the planning stages of your trip, it’s a good idea to think about how you and your pet can be considerate. Whether it’s by bringing extra snacks to share or routinely cleaning up after your dog, there are several things you both can do to practice good campsite etiquette. Make sure the site you choose is pet-friendly, and follow leash laws even if your dog is well-trained.

Taking a camping trip with your pet can present a few problems if you’re not well-prepared, so plan out your stay carefully and do some research to make sure you’ll both be safe and comfortable. Bringing along the right gear will go a long way toward helping you and your dog enjoy yourselves.

Have a question about a Le Pet Luxe product? Get in touch at (800) 844-4614.

Photo via Pexels