Your pup is a member of the family, and he loves the great outdoors. So it makes sense to take him along on your next camping trip! Any canine would jump at the chance to roam around the great outdoors and stick his head out the car window on the drive to the campsite.
If you’re a bit daunted by taking your four legged friend away with you for the first time then keep reading. As a team of self-confessed dog lovers we’ve pooled our knowledge and put together our top 5 tips for a hassle free holiday including a furry friend.
1. Don’t Overfeed Your Pooch
This may seem like an obvious one but when camping with your dog don’t throw them lots of extra BBQ meat and other rich treats they usually wouldn’t have at home. You will regret it in the morning when you spend the whole night wishing you’d brought a gas mask along. Staying as close to their usual diet and feeding routine as possible reduces smelly doggy-trumps and there is no mad rush to let them out to go to the toilet at impromptu times.
2. Layer Your Tent With Blankets Or Towels
Depending on the durability of your tent or awning, sharp puppy claws could potentially poke holes in the flooring. Spreading out a few extra blankets or towels can help put a stop to this, while also making any post-camping doggy cleanup so much easier. We also recommend bringing lots of spares to dry off the inevitable muddy and soggy paws.
3. Invest In A Collapsible Water Bowl
Just like you, your dog will get thirsty while you’re out walking. If it’s a hot summer’s day he or she will definitely want to cool off. Carrying around a full size water bowl can be really impractical plus super bulky. That’s why we’d recommend picking up one that you can just fold up and put in your backpack. There are lots of different versions available but we’d recommend this one. This dog bowl water bottle packs down into a portable handy size. Great for when you’re on the go!
4. Don’t Forget The Poo Bags!
Ok, so this is a general doggie rule and not specific to camping, but we still feel it’s very important all the same. Poo bags are a doggy essential and that doesn’t change even when you’re on holiday. Make sure if your dog does a number two that you pick it up and put it in a bin provided. Simples.
5. Strong Lead / Sturdy Anchor
When camping with your dog the last thing you want is to be running after them all over the campsite. No dog owner needs their own ‘FENTON!’ moment. To make sure your dog stays by your tent or caravan while you’re away we’d recommend packing a strong lead or a dog anchor, something you can tether your dog to later at night or when you’re cooking or eating. We’ve linked some options for you here.
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We’re a dog friendly park, here at Riverside and love welcoming furry friends of all shapes and sizes. We’ve got a range of pet friendly accommodation here because we know that dogs are part of the family too!
To find out more about a dog friendly stay give us a call on 01769 579269, drop us an email at relax@exmoorriverside.co.uk or book online here.
