Many animal lovers enjoy an outdoor holiday; camping in beautiful, natural surroundings. Of course it's even more fun if your dog comes on holiday with you. But what should you keep in mind if you decide to share your tent or caravan with your faithful friend? 5 Tips for a successful camping trip with your dog!
1) Check vaccinations, passport and local regulations
Each country has its own rules and regulations regarding vaccinations, entry requirements, passport and chip. So, make sure that you satisfy the requirements of the destination country, as well as all of the countries that you intend travelling through. Click here for entry requirements within the EU.
2) Find a suitable campsite
It goes without saying that you must pick a campsite where dogs are permitted, but you should also research other on-site facilities. Is there a (dog) bathing area where your dog can cool off for example? Is there sufficient space, are there designated play areas and can you readily walk your dog in or around the campsite? Research and book your campsite(s) well in advance, in order to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
3) Take the right gear with you
Dogs are not allowed to be off the lead at most campsites, so take a ground stake and an extra-long lead. And, as it will take your four-legged friend some time to adjust to his new environment, it's a good idea to bring along some familiar items, such as his own basket and favourite blanket. Obviously you'll also need to take sufficient food and plenty of (chew) snacks. Bear in mind too, that you'll unlikely have access to a fridge or freezer. If your pampered pooch is used to fresh raw meat, then look for a suitable alternative well before your trip and allow your dog to slowly get accustomed to it.
4) Ensure that your dog remains cool
Dogs can't cope with heat as well as we do. Make sure that your dog has access to a pleasant, sheltered spot (under the shade of some trees for example) and ensure that there's plenty of fresh drinking water available at all times, even when on the road. Always take a few large bottles of water and his bowl (these days you can purchase some nifty, all-in-one bottles and drinking bowls) and make regular stops to allow your pooch to stretch his legs. Most importantly, never leave your dog alone in a vehicle on warm days, not even with a window open. Overheating occurs rapidly and can be fatal.
5) Sharing your tent or caravan
Allow your dog to sleep as close to you as possible. Ideally you should provide him with his own sleeping compartment, or place his basket in the front portion of the tent or next to you in the caravan. It's best not to let your dog sleep outside or in a separate tent, as this may make him stressed and insecure. It also increases the risk of your beloved pet being stolen. So that your dog can become accustomed to sleeping in a tent, set it up at home and treat him to a fun trial holiday before you leave!
Bonus tip:
You might want to take an occasional day trip away from your campsite; for a bike ride in the countryside or a visit to a beautiful city nearby. But what should you do with your dog in this situation? Did you know that Pawshake has pet sitters in many different countries? So, if you decide to go camping in Germany, Belgium or the UK for example, you can also find a suitable dog sitter or dog walker via our website or app. Now that is handy!
If your dog is rather vocal (nocturnal barking) or not particularly partial to camping, then you should ask yourself whether you're really doing him a favour by bringing him with you. Don't forget, you can always find a reliable dog sitter at Pawshake. Someone who'll make sure that your faithful friend has a great holiday all of his own, right here in Ireland. Search for a dog sitter
