If you are looking for something fun and adventurous things to do with your pet, why not take them camping? There are heaps of pet friendly camping areas around Canberra and the surrounding regions that are relaxing, fun and a perfect place to get your pampered pooch back to nature.
If you do intend on planning a camping trip with your pet though, you need to be fully perceptive of your dog’s needs and safety, as well as be observant of their new temporary surroundings. Here are some handy tips on ways that you can keep your dog safe and happy while camping:
BEFORE THE CAMPING TRIP:
- Check all regulations and restrictions to make sure the camping spot you have chosen is indeed pet friendly. There are good reasons as to why a camping spot might not be safe for dogs, including preserving Australia’s bushland and wildlife, so make sure you do your research as to where you can go before you set out with your tent in tow!
- Ensure your dog is fully vaccinated, registered and microchipped, as well as having up to date contact details on their collars – just in case the worst should happen!
- Make sure you have all the appropriate equipment available to transport your pet and make sure your dog has everything it needs to be comfortable and safe. This includes obtaining the appropriate leashes and car harnesses, as well as bedding, plastic clean up bags, tried and tested remedies or medications if they get travel sickness, and anything else your dog might need.
- When travelling to the camping site, make sure there is plenty of water available for your dog on the journey, as well as making sure you stop regularly for them to do their business and get a bit of a stretch and exercise.
DURING THE CAMPING EXPERIENCE:
- Set up boundaries for your dog. Make sure they know where they are allowed to go, keep them under control and be observant about your surroundings and how your dog reacts to them, including if other dogs are present at the camping site.
- Respect the camp rules – don’t let your dog run around into other camping sites and make sure you always clean up after them.
- Ensure your pet is far enough away from the campfire (if you chose to have one, or are allowed to do so based on fire restrictions and bans) to ensure their safety. As night comes in, it might be best to set up an area with a leash far enough away from the fire to ensure their safety and the opportunity to control their whereabouts.
- Be mindful of animals and wildlife who call this camping spot their home. Wallabies, kangaroos, wombats and other native wildlife may be present in the area and in order to protect these animals, as well as your own, make sure your dog is controllable if they come into your camping area that your dog has more likely deemed its den.
- Watch out for anything that will threaten the safety of your dog, including snakes of all types, ticks, leeches and other little creatures that can be harmful to dogs. Make sure when you return home you do a thorough search of your dog’s fur for any trespassers, and research what actions need to be taken if bitten by a snake. Knowing dog first aid is always helpful!
- Make sure there is ample amount of water available for your dog, as well as food that is stored away from wild animals in the night. You will need to also insure that your dog has an appropriate place for them to sleep that is warm, dry and safe. Personally, based on our relationship with our own dog, we let him sleep in the tent and it was one of the best bonding experiences my husband and I have ever had with him.
So now that you know the best ways to keep your pup safe and happy, it’s time to get your tent out, stock up on marshmallows (for yourself of course!) and head out for a camping adventure with your best friend! It’s definitely an experience you won’t ever forget.
Courtney Hope | Author 