Sometimes, when you just love camping so much, you want everyone special to you to experience it as well. This includes your furry friends. It may seem overwhelming at first, but when done right, it could turn out to be one of the most memorable outdoor trips ever. Dogs love the outdoors so it’s a given that they will enjoy this kind of trip.

Here are some very useful tips to try when camping with a dog:

Find a Dog-Friendly Campsite

It’s common sense to do research on the campsite that you’re planning to visit. Check out their rules and regulations, especially regarding bringing of pets. Better yet, call ahead to make sure! Plenty of campsites allow pets, you don’t want to go to one that isn’t so it’s most ideal to check and make sure before making plans.

Prepare Your Dog’s Documents

While many campsites are now pet-friendly, some do require to check pet’s documentation so be sure you have these to save yourself the trouble. Bring their ID tags, license (make sure it’s up to date!) and vaccination papers. Organize it in one folder so it’s easy to pull out of your bag. These papers may also come in handy in case an emergency situation happens during your trip.

Pack a First Aid Kit For Your Dog

Bringing a first-aid kit for your pet is equally important to bringing your own. Being out in the woods, your dog’s curiosity might peak and he may eat or encounter things that he shouldn’t so there is a higher risk of choking, getting sick, poisoning and the like. Having a pet-specific kit and guide book will be extremely handy in case of emergency situations.

Pack the Basic Dog Essentials

Aside from the basics (enough food, water, blanket, toys, poop bags, etc), bring a strong leash, tether and stake. Some campsites have leash-required zones and there may be times that your pet may need to be secured even if he’s used to not wearing one. Also, it’s ideal to bring collapsible food and water bowls for your dog to carry easily, especially if you’re going to do a lot of hiking.

Book a Visit to the Vet

As humans, we need to make sure that we are healthy enough to go on a trip. The same things goes with our furry friends. At the visit to the vet, make sure that their flea and tick prevention/medication is updated.

Remember, you are responsible for your dog’s actions as well as his well-being in an out of your home. Keep these dog camping tips the next time you visit the outdoors!