Tent? Check. Clothes? Check. Bug spray? Check. Food? Check.
A canine first aid kit? What’s that?
Don’t stress if you don’t know - we’re here to help you tick all your boxes on your camping canine checklist.
Whether you are a human or a dog, we all love enjoying what the New Zealand nature gives us. Even more so when it’s warm, sunny, and stress-free!
And when it comes to camping, we can all enjoy it a lot more if we take the boy scouts motto to heart: be prepared.
Here are four easy tips to help make your camping trip with your pooch one to remember:
1. Know where you are going!
This might seem like a complete no-brainer, but you would be surprised how often people (and dogs) become motivated to carry on “a little further” and explore. While exploring should be a fun activity, it can be quite dangerous if you are not aware of your surroundings.
Doing a simple Google search of your campsite is recommended. You can pinpoint where rivers and streams are as well as points of access back to civilization. You never know when an emergency might occur. A broken foot or paw can get worse exponentially if you are lost and/or confused.
Also, make sure to recognise if the site is a dog-friendly campsite.
2. Packing the right bedding
Does your dog need a dog tent? And if so, has your dog ever slept in a dog tent before?
Just like you, your dog appreciates sleeping in comfort and warmth. If you bring along a dog bed or tent they have never used before, it could spell barking doom.
Double check your bedding and sleeping materials - will you and your dog sleep well?
3. Did you bring the right food? Do you have enough water?
Did you bring a food bowl? What kind of food did you bring? Where will you store the food? How will you open the food - does it need a can opener?
Packing the right food isn’t just a rite of comfort for you - it applies to your dog as well. Make sure your dog is familiar with whatever food you pack.
In regards to water, you cannot hope for water access - find out online if your site has clean water access. If not, make sure to pack enough water for you and your pup. Always keep your dog’s water bowl full, especially during hot days.
4. A shade of relaxation
Jumping around and sloshing through the lake or river is always good fun. It’s not only refreshing, but it’s good exercise too!
Even though you and your pup are keeping cool in the water, please make sure to double check your dog is not suffering from any heat-related disorders. Is your dog panting a lot? Is your dog slowing down? Does your dog need dog-safe sunscreen?
Take a break every so often and relax in the shade with some water and a snack. Taking a breather can go a long way to enjoying a full day of camping and summer fun!
By taking these four factors into consideration you can begin a lifetime full of beautiful memories with your dog as they embrace camping head on. So get the marshmallows ready - and dog marshmallows too! - and enjoy the great New Zealand outdoors!
If you have any other questions about camping with your dog, or if you would like to share your own camping pup tips, we’re just a phone call away. Feel call us on: 09 448 2227.