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!

Whether you want to add Pet Photography to your business or just capture a treasured photo of your own family pet, there are a few things you need to know before you just show up with your camera expecting award winning portraits. Here are a five tips that will help you get the photos you’re looking for.

Tip #1 – Patience

First and foremost we must realize that stunning photos of pets involve a lot of patience. Waiting for that right pose or expression that represents the character of the pet may take a little time. Sometimes we get lucky and it happens very quickly, then there are the other times when it feels like we will never get THE shot! It can be frustrating but extremely rewarding.

Tip # 2 – Shoot Often

Shooting continuously can accomplish a couple of things. First it gets the pet used to the sound of the camera, second it allows you to capture candid shots in between formal poses. You might be surprised at some of the images you captured when you review them.

Tip #3 – Use Different Angles

The eyes are the most important part of the photograph. The character and soul of the pet can be more dramatically captured by getting down to their eye level. Shooting down from above by standing on a chair or something solid can also product effective and unique photos. Be adventurous! Experimenting with different angles may also generate exceptional portraits. Remember, the eyes must be in perfect focus.

Tip # 4 – Toys & Treats

There tends to be some controversy on the use of pet toys and treats to stimulate the pet in order to make a more appealing shot. On the one hand, the toys and treats can help you get more intense and striking images but on the other hand, some animals will become over-stimulated and become difficult to work with. Talking with the owner and observing the animal under both circumstances before the shoot can help you decide whether or not to use the props.

Tip # 5 – Composition

We can get so busy trying to get that perfect expression or interesting shot that we forget what is around us and in the background. Make a visual check through the viewfinder to see if you are using the rules of good composition. Are you using your thirds? Is the background uncluttered? Does the background complement the subject?

For example; it may not be wise to shoot a black dog with a dark background. If you find your location is not working, move around to the other side or change locations completely. It can make the difference between an ordinary shot and a stunning portrait.

There are a lot of things to remember in a very short space of time when you are working with animals. Taking pet portraits is challenging to say the least, but is extremely rewarding. Capturing for the owner the essence and character of their much loved family pet turns that stunning portrait into a priceless memory for them.

Dogs love the outdoors, that’s why it’s so much fun bringing them along on a camping or hiking trip. If you’re planning an adventure this winter season, you shouldn’t let the cold stop you from including your pet in your plans!

Of course, there are some important things to consider and right planning and preparation are a must.

Have fun winter camping with your dog – just keep in mind these useful tips!

Know what your furry friend can handle

Before planning anything, it’s important to observe how your pet handles the cold. Some breeds can handle cool weather better than others. If you’re not sure how yours will do on a winter camping trip, you can try to go out to the park or take a short hike with him on a cold day.

Respect what he can handle and be realistic with your expectations.

Check campground rules and regulations

When choosing a campground, make sure the one you choose is pet-friendly. Most state parks have a pet policy on their website. Some don’t allow pets, some allow but only on certain areas and on a leash and some are more lenient.

Keep your pup warm

When all is good to go and you’re ready to pack for your trip, be sure to pack layers of clothing for both you and your furry friend. A thick dog jacket (sometimes in a form of a vest) is important for extra insulation. You will also need an absorbent towel since your pup will be playing in the snow.

When it comes to sleeping gear, your dog basically needs the same things as you – a bed, a thick blanket and his very own sleeping bag!

Bring bright colors and booties

When it comes to your dog gear like a jacket, leash and harness, it’s best to choose bright colors so he can be easily spotted in the snowy landscape. Also, try some booties for your pup at home before your trip to keep his paws warm and protected walking in the snow.

Pack plenty of water and nutritious snacks

A trek through the conditions of winter season can easily cause dehydration and exhaustion, that’s why you should load up on high-energy and nutrient-rich snacks for both you and your pet. Don’t forget to always carry water wherever you go!

Winter camping with your dog is truly exciting to think about – just follow these useful tips to maximize the experience!