What should we bring?

If you’re a camper, you probably already know what you should bring to keep yourself and your fellow human explorers safe while on your adventure. Fido has his own special needs, so be sure to pack for him, too. Here is what should be loaded into Fido’s survival pack.

  • A designated doggy backpack
    • You’ve already packed plenty of items for yourself in your own backpack. In case of an emergency, you don’t want to be digging through your giant pack looking for what you need to take care of Fido, so make sure he has his own.
  • A doggy first aid kit, which should include:
    • Sterile cleaning pads (for cleaning small cuts)
    • Gauze (for wrapping wounds)
    • Waterproof adhesive or medical tape (this holds gauze in place)
    • Vet wrap (special bandage material specially made for dogs that doesn’t stick to their hair)
    • Cotton swabs
    • Hydrocortisone cream
    • Antibiotic ointment
    • Hydrogen peroxide (for cleaning deep wounds)
    • Antihistamine pills (Benadryl is generally safe for dogs, but be sure to check with your vet)
    • Olive oil or tick release formula (both of these will help make tick removal easier)
    • Septic powder (this stops bleeding on minor wounds)
    • Dog-safe bug spray
    • Pain medication that has been approved by your vet. Human pain meds aren’t normally safe for dogs, so be sure to ask your pooch’s doctor for a recommendation or prescription before venturing off.
    • Skin coating or wax for Fido’s paw pads (this protects against extreme hot or cold weather – but remember, it’s not ideal to take your pup out for a camping trip when the weather is scorching or frigid)
    • Any medicine that he takes occasionally or regularly. If Fido is prone to allergies and takes an occasional antihistamine, pack it. If your dog has digestive issues and takes a daily antacid, don’t leave home without it. No matter what medication he requires, be sure to pack extra just to be safe.
    • Gloves
    • Tweezers (for removing splinters, ticks and other irritants)
    • Heat and cold packs (if Fido gets a boo-boo or pulls a muscle, he’ll thank you – just be sure to supervise him around them so he doesn’t chew them)
    • Eye dropper and/or oral syringe for administering medication and/or applying hydrogen peroxide (ask your vet for an oral syringe at your pre-camping check-up)
  • Fido’s food and plenty of water just for him
    • If you won’t have a fresh water supply (like cases of bottled water), make sure you bring a filtration system. Also, be sure to keep his food out of reach of wild animals – wherever you’ve packed your own food is a safe bet!
  • Collapsible or easy-to-pack food and water bowls
    • Be sure to have one bowl for food and one for water – it will make your life simpler, especially if your water supply is limited and it’s easier for you to hide his water bowl between drinks.
  • Treats
    • Treats are great to have while camping, because you can encourage Fido’s good behavior and give him a taste of home. Just be sure these are also kept out of paw’s reach for wild creatures!
  • A bed and blanket for sleeping and staying warm
    • It’s important to have something padded to elevate him off the ground (especially if it will be cold at night), plus a blanket for him to curl up under or snuggle with.
  • A reflective collar (make sure his ID and rabies tags are on it!) and leash set so he’ll always be visible to you and other campers
    • An even better way to ensure his safety is to attach a light source – like a clip-on light or mini-flashlight – to his collar.
  • Doggy bags to pick up after him when he potties
  • A beloved toy for comfort
    • If possible, bring something that can withstand the elements. A Frisbee, tennis ball or washable rubber toy is a better option than the stuffed teddy bear he cuddles at bedtime.
  • A crate, if Fido uses one at home…
    • Even if he shares the bed with you every night and you only use a crate during the day when he’s unsupervised, consider bringing it. Dogs thrive on routine, and if he’s used to being in his crate – his safe haven – at least part of the day, he may be comforted spending even an hour there while you’re out on your adventure. Plus, if you don’t trust him to stay put when you’re setting up your tent or building a fire, you’ll have a sure way to keep him safe and contained. Just be sure you or a companion is with him every minute he’s in it!
  • … Or, be a bit stylish with a dog tent
  • Even if your dog isn’t crate trained, it’s good for him to have a designated spot to relax when you’ve got chores to do. Dog tents don’t feel as restrictive as crates, so they’re a good option for dogs who are used to roaming free. As with crates, be sure you or a companion is with him every minute he’s in it!
  • Doggy sunscreen
    • Remember, if the sun is out, his (and your) skin is at risk of sunburn, even if it’s chilly. Be sure to pack a formula that’s made especially for dogs – dogs shouldn’t wear sunscreen designed for humans.
  • Dog booties
    • Dog booties are essential if it’s cold, but they should be brought no matter the weather. Your dog’s paws may not be conditioned to the terrain you’ll be exploring, which can lead to cuts and serious infections. Even if Fido’s paws are tough from your constant adventures, they’re a good way to protect his feet if he gets an injury.
  • A reflective, buoyant water vest
    • If you will be anywhere near water, this is a must, even if you don’t plan on letting Fido go for a swim. Remember, dogs love to explore – if he takes an unexpected dip, you’ll want him to be prepared.
  • Towels
    • Even if you’re not staying in an area with water, your dog is likely to find a source of water to splash around in.
  • Baby wipes
    • Baby wipes can give Fido’s fur and paws a quick cleaning.