Handy hints for camping with dogs

With the mid-September weather last year being something of a glorious heat wave, husband Matthew and I were itching to give our tent an outing before the winter frosts settled. There was however, one small, or actually rather large, dog shaped obstacle, in the form of our friend’s Old English Sheepdog, Dusty. We were pet-sitting two-year-old Dusty while her owners were living it up in the Maldives.

Having never really camped with a dog before, and not really knowing how Dusty would react to life under canvas, we tentatively agreed that we should give it a go and stretch our comfort zones, all in the name of research.

I felt the most important starting point was that Dusty is an easy going, sociable dog and fairly well behaved. She’s used to being out and about in the outdoors and good around other people, children and dogs. If your dog is disobedient, excessively noisy or nervous and aggressive around strangers, then it would be a good idea to try some obedience training before you go. It may also help to have several short day trips into the countryside to get your dog used to unfamiliar sights, sounds and people.

The next obvious point on the list is to check that the campsite you intend to visit accepts pets. I’ve found that there are a few campsites that do not allow dogs, and are many that charge an extra nightly supplement. There’s a helpful, but not exhaustive, list of dog-friendly campsites at dogfriendlybritain.co.uk

If you’re going to a new area, it’s also a good idea to research dog admittance policies of attractions and pubs close by, in case the weather turns and you need to take shelter. One dog owner we spoke to also makes time to find the location of the nearest vet, in case of emergencies.

HOLIDAY PACKING

Next, ensure you pack for your pooch. You’ll need plenty of food and fresh water. We took dried food with us, because it’s not as messy, smelly and doesn’t go off as quickly. But, if your dog is used to wet food, it’s a good idea to test out their reaction to dried food a few days before you go. There are several ranges of collapsible food and water bowls on the market, but the ones that you usually use at home will do just as well.

Most of the dog owners we spoke to, and we agree, insist that a tether (a giant corkscrew shaped contraption that is twisted into the grass and the dog’s lead is clipped or tied to the top) is perhaps the most essential item. It meant Dusty could be tethered while we pitched the tent and whenever we needed both hands free, such as at meal times. They are widely available in camping shops.

Bringing your dog’s own bed from home will mean that it is in comfortable and familiar sleeping surroundings. Don’t forget to pack an extra blanket in case the temperature drops (especially for short or thin haired dogs), and a plastic-backed blanket to put under the bed is essential to ensure damp and cold don’t seep through the groundsheet.

You could also pack some games and toys for your dog to play with. Frisbees and balls are great in campsites with open spaces (some larger campsites even have dedicated dog walking and playing areas), or bring chews or rope toys. Camper Sian Sykes swears by the Kong toy (web: kongtoycompany.com) to keep her Springer Spaniel Poppy entertained for hours. Familiar toys also help Poppy feel more at home and less anxious about new surroundings.

Don’t forget a plentiful supply of poop scoop bags (biodegradable ones are best); you can never have too many, and a sturdy lead. We found that a longer lead allowed Dusty some free roaming to explore new smells and places, but she couldn’t wander too far. We did have to watch though that she didn’t get wound up around the tent poles and bring the whole lot crashing down. There were a few close calls!

So, you’ve arrived at the site, and everyone’s excited, including the dog. Most sites will have a list of rules concerning dog behaviour; the most common are the obvious ones. Keep them under control at all times, and never, ever leave their excrement on or around the camping field.

It’s also good etiquette to control barking and noise, especially late at night and early morning and don’t let your dog stray and disturb other campers. As we think of Dusty as the bees’ knees, it’s easy to forget that there are some people who dislike dogs or would rather not be pestered by a wagging tail and a slobbery nose. It’s essential to respect other people’s opinions.

It is also worth watching out for other campers approaching your dog. An over enthusiastic youngster may be too much for a dog and a quick nip may result from play. Unwanted tit-bits might upset your dog’s stomach. Strangers do not know how your pet will react to their approach and their insistence that they understand dogs will be little defence if its welcome is less than civil. People forget that a dog will protect its territory – even if it is a tent.

Caroline Bowen, from St Helens, who went camping for the first time with her golden retriever Bailey last summer, told me her secret to happy camping. She keeps exactly the same feeding routine as at home, which means minimum distress and no grouchy dogs. This may mean planning your day’s activities carefully so you can be back for dinnertime.

Make sure there’s always fresh drinking water (without any creepy-crawling additions) available. Don’t forget to store any leftover food securely to stop foraging wild animals that come looking for a stray dog biscuit or two.

When it comes to bedtime, opinions vary as to whether your dog should be inside the tent with you, outside in the porch (if you have one) or even in the car. This may well be dictated by the size of your tent. We preferred to have Dusty inside with us, and there was ample room for her bed alongside ours. This meant we could keep an eye on her and weren’t worried about what she was up to. But, if your dog is a bit of a fidget, then he may be better tethered up outside the tent if the weather allows, or in the porch.

It may sound cruel but unless your dog is sleeping in a completely sealed tent then a tether is vital. At night, a dog will slip under an outer, tempted by strange sounds, smells and the thought of a little scavenging from neighbouring tents.

Above all remember that your dog will love camping as much as you do, so long as he’s happy and comfortable, much like humans. He’ll enjoy being around the new sights and experiences, and he’ll love having the chance to spend lots of time bonding with his family. Remember to involve your dog in whatever you do and reward him for good behaviour.

It’s also likely that you’ll meet and chat to lots of people you might not otherwise have, as one thing’s certain, your dog will attract much more attention than you will. Here’s to a wag-tastic camping holiday.

• Do your research carefully, not only for dog-friendly campsites, but for dog-friendly attractions, place to eat and visitor areas too.
• Pitch your tent in the garden to get pooch used to its smell, sound and feel. It will then be more relaxed staying in one on the campsite.
• Pack dry food instead of wet – it’s not as messy or smelly.
• Take food and drink for the journey and have regular comfort breaks – your dog will enjoy a short walk to stretch the legs.
• Bring wet wipes or anti-bacterial hand gel so it’s easy to clean your hands after picking up waste.
• Take a spare towel to dry your dog after swims or heavy rain.
• If your dog isn’t micro-chipped, think about an inexpensive temporary dog tag, detailing the campsite you’re in and your mobile number.
• Check your dog daily for ticks and bites. If you’re near to woodland, then also check his footpads for splinters and needles.
• Always keep a supply of poo bags with you. You don’t want to be caught out.
• If you’re planning to camp out in the sticks, then it’s a good idea to pack a basic doggy first aid kit with some antiseptic and bandages, in case of emergencies.
• If mountain walking and hiking part of the camping trip, then a doggy harness may be a good idea for smaller dogs if you need to lift them over rocks or steep parts.
• A water-filled black shower bag left on the car’s parcel shelf window will ensure plenty of warm water to wash your dog off at the end of a walk. This is especially important if pooch has been swimming in the sea – you want to wash the coat down before any irritating salt crystals form.
• Place your dog’s bed away from drafts and remember to take a dog coat in case cold strikes. An extra fleece blanket not only keeps the dog warm but dries quickly if wet.
• Remember synthetic tents can become very hot so do not leave your dog unattended (in fact, a dog should never be left unattended period) and watch out for over heating (rapid panting, bright red tongue). Always provide plenty of fresh water – especially if the weather is hot and you are feeding dry foods.

Check out the campsite’s rules concerning dogs when you book. Some may limit numbers, others may have a strict no-dog policy. Also check the rules. Many independents have a similar take to that of the Camping and Caravanning Club when it comes to camping with pets:

“Pets are welcome on all Camping and Caravanning Club Sites, but must be kept under control. Animals not confined in your unit or awning must be on a lead – no longer than 2m (6ft) – at all times. Proprietary pet cages are permitted on Club Sites within the unit or awning. The pet owner must clean up after his or her pet on all areas of the site.”

Chris and Victoria Oxley from Staffordshire, were enjoying a fortnight’s camping holiday at the Cwm Nantcol Campsite in Llanbedr, near Harlech, North Wales, with their dogs Ella and Missy, who are both six months old. Because their dogs are both young and very lively, they brought along a cage with them for sleeping, which they said has been invaluable.

“My pet hate is when some dog owners pick up dog mess in a plastic bag and then leave the full plastic bag littering the campsite field or bushes. You’re never that far away from a litter bin!” says Chris.

“I always pack a brush for Buddy when we go camping so I can give him a good brush and check for ticks at the end of each day” says Vicki.

Caroline Bowen from St Helens took her six-month-old puppy Bailey, a Golden Retriever, camping for the first time recently.

So, you’ve planned an adventure and pooch is as excited as you are. But, don’t forget to pack the right kit. There are loads of great products out there that will help to make life under canvas easier for you and more comfortable for your dog.

Let’s start with the stuff that’s the most important to pooch - his food of course! You won’t be his best friend for long if you forget his dinner. Mountain Paws make a fabulous range of hardwearing food and water bowls that are perfect for camping trips. They are collapsible and foldable, and the food bowls have a draw-cord top to keep any contents inside the bowl and not all over the car, which also makes them great for long days out.

If you’re planning a walk or hike, then your dog will love Ruffwear’s range of kit for active canines. One of their most innovative products lines is the Dog Packs. These clever packs are ideal for days out on the hills. They fit onto your dog’s back so he can carry his own food, water and gear. Ruffwear’s experts advise that a fit and active dog can carry up to 25 per cent of his bodyweight, but care should be taken for dogs that aren’t so used to exercise. They also advise that each day out with a pack should be fun, happy and positive, so that pooch will soon make the connection between wearing the pack and fun times ahead. For more advice see the Ruffwear website or ask your local stockist for help.

And, if you come back from an adventure and you find that dog has had a little too much muddy fun, then the Muddy Glove Dog Towel (Mountain Paws) is perfect. It fits over your hand and forearm, which means you can hold your dog down as you dry him. No more stinky wet dog smells in the tent!

So, adventure over and it’s bedtime. If pooch is warm and comfortable from the outset, it will save you a lot of worry and hassle. If you decide that your own tent is too small, then you could invest in the Dogbag. This brilliant foldable fabric dog kennel packs into a small daysack style carry bag. You can put it up in the porch of your tent, or outside if the weather is fine. You can even use it whilst you’re out and about or in the car.

As for keeping pooch warm and comfy, take a look at Ruffwear’s range of mats for dogs. The Flophouseis a foam mat that will hold its shape and give your dog comfort and protection from the cold ground. It’s totally washable and there are clever drainage holes so it dries quickly. For early or late season camping, think about a doggy sleeping bag for warmth. The Dogs on Tourbag from canineconcepts.co.uk can convert from a bed to a sleeping bag, and rolls up easily into a carry bag.

To cope with all that extra energy that comes with a brilliant night’s sleep, don’t forget to pack lots of doggy toys. Both Mountain Paws and Ruffwear do great, hardwearing ranges. To light up your whole pitch, consider a glow in the dark or flashing LED collar for night time, and you’ll be able track down pooch even on the darkest of campsites.