Safety tips for camping with your dog

Going away camping with your dog is a great way to leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life to take in some fresh air, beautiful scenery and get back to basics.

Check if the camp spot is pet friendly first

There are plenty of free camping spots and holiday parks that are pet friendly to pitch your tent in. Just make sure that you aren’t planning on staying in a National Park or Nature Reserve where dogs aren’t allowed.

Always check with the accommodation provider if there are any restrictions or conditions they might have in relation to camping with your dog.

Keeping your dog safe

There are many natural hazards that your dog may encounter when you are camping including wild animals, cliffs, poisonous plants, sharp rocks and more so it is important to be extra vigilant.

It is really important to keep them safe from snakes when camping with your dog in the great outdoors. Know the signs and symptoms of a snake bite to look out for and get them to the Vet as soon as possible (ring ahead though to make sure they have antivenom!)

A dog that is off-leash is more likely to get lost or hurt too, so keep them on a lead or long line, and ideally crate them in the evenings.  For tips on how to crate train your dog click here.

Check the camp ground for hazards

It’s also really important when camping with your dog to do a check of the area you are staying in for anything that might pose a threat to your dog.

Sweep the area for any broken glass or bottles that might have been left lying around.

BBQ areas or campfires are often a haven for our dogs with their fat drippings from sausages and other fatty foods or onions scattered around.  These can be toxic and harmful for our dogs so clear the area or keep them away from it.

Be prepared

Before you leave your home, write down the information of at least two vets that are close to your campsite should something unexpected happen.

Take along plenty of water and a first aid kit and of course make sure your dog’s microchip is up to date and they are wearing an ID tag.

Click here for our top tips on being prepared when traveling with your pooch or download our free pet-friendly travel guide here.

About the Author: Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love Your Dog