Camping with Your Dog

by | Jul 15, 2020 | At The Vet, Camping, Community, Living With Animals, Pet Care, Pet Lifestyle | 0 comments

Camping With Dog At Altitude Animal Hospital

Firstly, nobody is probably camping with their cats, rabbits, or guinea pigs, so we can just skip right over those pets and get straight into considerations for your dog.

  1. Fresh, clean water, and food. This might seem like an easy one, but I have talked to many people who have made it all the way to their destination only to realize they forgot the dog food. Sure, a little human food might get them by, but dealing the the potential for upset tummies while camping is not fun. Don’t forget the bowls.
  2. Avoid letting your dog drink from lakes, rivers, and streams as much as possible. These can be full of giardia and bacteria that can make your dog sick.
  3. Consider flea and tick prevention for your dog. While we don’t see a ton of flea and tick problems in Colorado, some areas can have problems, so think about if you want your dog on an easy prevention. Call us for more information.
  4. Make sure your dog is on heartworm prevention…mosquitoes are everywhere and can infect your dog with this deadly parasite. Believe me, I am being eaten alive as I write this blog!
  5. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Wildlife can carry many diseases that are transmissible to our dogs.
  6. Be safe around wildlife. Keep your dog leashed at all times, for the safety of your dog and the wildlife. A loose running dog can scare off wildlife or even cause one or both of them to get injured. Lets respect our wild animals and keep your dog on a leash.
  7. Watch your dog around the campfire. Make sure they stay a safe distance away to avoid burns and stray sparks that could spook them.
  8. Your pet should have shelter from the heat and sun during the day. In the evenings, your dog shouldHappy Dog At Altitude Animal Hospital have plenty of blankets and sweaters to stay warm.
  9. Be prepared with a first aid kit for your dog. See our Facebook post for recommended starter items.
  10. Be aware of plants that are toxic in the area.
  11. Watch for rattlesnakes. If your pet gets bit by a rattlesnake, they will need to go immediately to the closest veterinarian for care. Call ahead to make sure they have Anti-venon to treat your dog.
  12. Consider booties to protect your dog’s feet if you will be doing lots of hiking.

Above all, have fun with your dog. They love the great outdoors as much as we do!