Our Pups love to come camping with us! Usually when we go on vacation, we have someone come and feed them and let them out a few times a day. This year, we took them with us to our favorite camping spot! They absolutely LOVED it!
There are a few things that you need to remember or bring with you- some because the Campground requires it and some because your pups need them!
- Long Leashes: Since you have to keep your dogs under control at all times, having long leashes, like 12 or 15 foot ones, makes life so much easier.
- Don’t forget their tags with rabies certificate: if your dog gets lose in the Campground or woods, having tags on them with your contact information is priceless. Most Campgrounds require proof of rabies vaccines. They may not ask you for them up front, but if something happens, be prepared to show the tag or the certificate.
- Don’t leave them unattended: This may seem like common sense, but some pet owners leave their pups tied up at the campsite and go off and leave them behind. Nothing is more annoying than a dog that won’t stop barking!
- Bring toys: Just like you do for your 2-legged kids, bring toys to keep your pups occupied. Our German Shepherd is obsessed with Frisbees and had a ball with this one! Marley, our Border Collie, just wanted to be near us. Normally, he loves Frisbee and squeaky balls, but his FAVORITE thing is chasing flashlight beams. We had lots of fun with that!
- Extra water and food: Camping is hard work! Dogs burn more calories when they are outside playing all day. They also drink more water. Be sure to bring extra food and keep fresh water out at all times. One thing my pups love is when I fill up a Kong toy with dog treats. It keeps them busy and they get a snack at the same time!
- Clean up bags: Yes, you must clean up after your pet. Many campgrounds have designated pet areas and some have bags and a trash bin just for doggie doo doo. But be sure to carry your own supply of plastic bags and a little hand sanitizer won’t hurt either.