Camping season has arrived, and it's about time we can set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors to feel a sense of normalcy!

Many campers will be bringing their pups along with them, and if you are one of these campers, before packing up, make sure that you are prepared and excited for the following:

• Constant Companionship
• Co-Sleeping

Your dog will be by your side your entire trip, so savor that time! You cannot leave your pup behind at the campsite at all while you leave. The same goes for night time. Your pup will want to be as close to you as possible, which is smart because the night noises can easily spoke both of you!

Tips for Camping with Your Dog

Train Your Dog

A trained dog is still not a guarantee that a pup won’t wander off, but it will help you feel safer on your trip.

Update Tags and Bring Records

Before you leave on your camping trip, make a laminated card with your dog’s identifying information, vaccination record, and health history, plus all of your contact info. You should also make sure your dog’s microchip info and tags are up-to-date.

Look Up Regulations

Campsites each have set regulations in place when it comes to pets. Make sure you understand your responsibilities.

Stay Leashed

A leash is mandatory to have on hand while camping, especially if there are other tents near by.

First Aid Kit

The U.S. Forest Service recommends carrying the following dog-specific first aid items, many of which you probably already have at home:

• A bandana for a makeshift muzzle
• Flat-bladed tweezers and a small container of mineral oil for tick removal
• An emergency fold-up blanket (space blanket) for treating shock or cold
• A folding tool that has needle-nose pliers for extracting a large thorn or a porcupine quill
• Booties for protecting injured paws (toddler socks work great!)
• A small first aid book with instructions for treating pets
• The name, phone number, and directions of a nearby veterinarian or pet emergency clinic

Overestimate Water Needs

You and your pup both need to stay hydrated, and running low on water won’t be fun.

Bring Towels

A toweled off dog will be much more fun to cuddle with than one still covered in dirt.

Don’t Forget Poop Bags

Just as you should leave no trash behind, your dog’s waste should not be forgotten. There are negative ways that it impacts the campgrounds other than just being rude to future campers.

Pack Dog Toys

Balls to toss, frisbees to throw, whatever your furbaby loves the most.

Check For Ticks

Tick-checks should be done a few times a day while camping - for you and your dog.

Camping Items to Invest in for Your Pup:

Collar Light: You want to see your dog after the sun goes down.

Sleeping Pad: Give your dog a comfortable place to nap.

Dog Backpack: A lightweight storage bag to hold poop bags, kibble, and bowls.

Collapsable food and water bowls: A true space saver! Remember to only bring food out during meal time, as a bowl of dog food will attract other animals of the woods.