Our dogs travel with us so finding a campsite that is dog friendly is a must.

Our dogs travel with us so finding a campsite that is dog friendly is a must.

CAMPSITE

Most state parks allow dogs (sometimes even in select cabins), and a growing number also  allow dogs on some or all of the hiking trails. We find that private campgrounds are hit and miss with us. While some may not allow any dogs, other may allow only 1 dog. This will not work  if you re planning to take along your family and you have 3 dogs. If there isn't enough information on -line about the campsite, I usually email the camp site.

PLANNING AHEAD

Prior to our travels, we always call the veterinarian and request an up- to-date print out of each of our dogs medical history. The dogs also all have ID tags with their name and our contact information. Many times we'll call ahead to the campground to make sure 3 dogs are welcome on the property. If not, we will not be staying there. Once we decide on a campsite we add the campsite information to their id tags.

PACKING

We pack a first aid kit, food, water, bowls, leashes, lead, bedding, toys, treats, shampoo, conditioner, brush, tick key, towels and more towels, poop bags, lighted collar, jackets for cold weather and a life jacket if they'll be boating. We also check around and get the contact information for the nearest veterinarian to our location in case they're needed.

TENTS AND LOCALES

Over the years, our dogs have camped in a variety of settings and tents. Prior to the tent with rain fly that we have now,  we had an old Camel Cabin style 8' x 10' tent. I loved this tent but found it to be to small for us and the 3 dogs to spend more than a few days in.

CAMPFIRE

Campfire time with the dogs is always fun. While Monroe and Motley lay behind Sam's chair, Buddy ventures out  - attracted to the smell of the roasted marshmallows.

SECURE YOUR DOG

Awhile back, we did have a frightening experience with Monroe. We'd went camping up near Lake Erie and I left the 3 dogs with my husband in the tent and walked across the campground to use the bathhouse. When I came out of the bathhouse, Monroe greeted me with tail wagging- and leash trailing along behind him. He'd left  without my husband even realizing he was gone.

THE SNEAK

If you are like us and have multiple dogs you will soon learn each has their own personality. While some dogs are content to lay down or sit looking out the tent window you may find another dog will be bored or frustrated doing this.

In this photo, you can see that Monroe is getting ready to sneak out of the tent. After we got over the initial shock of his cleverness in finding a way to quietly sneak out the side door, we both vowed to keep a close eye on him.

GOOD DOG MANNERS

Dogs are always up for a new adventure and they enjoy the outdoors as much as we do but sometimes it is necessary to stop your dog. There may be some situations where he reacts strangely or is provoked to a defensive or aggressive reaction. It's best to know your dog and know how to calm him down quickly.

PLAYTIME

When they are not off hiking ( smell walking) with us, Buddy spends much of his time chasing cabbage moths, while Monroe and Motley roll around in the grass and pounce on one another.

HEAT EXHAUSTION AND STROKE

Watch your dog! Panting is the main way a dog cools himself. Rapid panting or a bright red tongue or mucous membranes, drooling and thick saliva are all an indicator that he may need help cooling down. Fatigue is also a huge indicator that somethings wrong with your dog. If your dog is seeking out shady spots he may already be to hot. If you recognize any of these signs, get your dog water and take him somewhere cool and or apply cool water to him. Always watch your dog for behavior of overheating and if you're unsure - call a vet immediately.

SUNSET AND QUIET TIME AT CAMP

Camping, particularly at sunset  is a relaxing time. While a campsite may be loud during the day, once night starts to fall, it's time to settle down. Your dog will need to understand it's quiet time.

A tired dog is a good dog so make sure he is getting sufficient physical and mental exercise daily.