The camping season is just around the corner so maybe it’s about time you took your dog on an adventure too. However, you need to make sure your pooch is ready for the ride and for the camping days, so here are some useful tips you should take into account before packing your bags.

Look for dog-friendly sites

Just because you found a safe spot into the woods doesn’t mean you are allowed to take your dog with you too. On the contrary, we advise you to only look for dog-friendly facilities and stay safe at all costs. The woods can be dangerous even if you’re well equipped and have your best friend by your side.

Pay a quick visit to the vet

Before going on a new adventure it would be best to make sure your pet is healthy and in good shape. Run some quick tests and check out your dog’s immunization schedule with the vet to make sure you’re not missing any shots.

And, if you want your pooch to stay away from diarrhea, constipation, stings and mild infections, you may want to bring in with you a small first aid kit for dogs. It should contain mild antibiotics, anti-inflammatory substances, rubbing alcohol, bandaids, some vitamins or everything else that you might consider useful.

Consider its diet

Proper food is mandatory if you want to keep your energy levels high while camping, trekking, biking or hiking. This should also apply to your dog, so make sure it has access to a proper source of proteins and fats to withstand the physical effort.

Canned food and kibbles represent reliable foods to take with you outdoors but your dog should also receive home-cooked meals or treats once in a while. Reading more about this will ensure your pet only receives high-quality food that will provide all necessary vitamins, minerals, proteins, and nutrients for a healthy life.

Pack a leash or a tether

The whole idea of spending some time outdoors is to enjoy nature, freedom, and fresh air. And, while your dog may feel comfortable off-leash, you should always pack a tether or leash to make sure your pet doesn’t leave the campsite. Some locations may even impose the rule of keeping your dog leashed at night.

However, you should make sure that, in case you do have to use a tether, it is well-designed and that it won’t cause any discomfort or pose a risk to your dog’s health. Also, make sure that your dog has a shelter to use in case of bad weather, and that you check on it every few hours to ensure everything’s alright.

You may also want to minimize the time your dog has to spend tethered. If possible, you can choose to stay in a campsite that’s specially designed for pets so you don’t have to use a tether at all. You can also get a larger tent so your beloved canine can spend the night with you and your family, which should be the trip’s main purpose, anyway.

Prepare the luggage

There are many special backpacks available on the market designed to be worn by dogs, that tie around the belly and allow maximum freedom of movement. However, choose the bag and its contents according to your pet’s size, age, and breed.

The teaching process might take some time as well. Thus, before your trip, allow your pet enough time to accommodate with the backpack.

At first, your dog should carry it empty for around half an hour. Gradually start adding the trip essentials and see how your pooch deals with the extra weight. If he or she feels any discomfort, try adjusting the hoops or getting rid of some of the items inside the backpack.