For many, our four-legged friends aren’t just mere accessories in a household, but full-fledged members of the family. It stands to reason then that you wouldn’t leave a member of the family behind when you hit the road for your next adventure. So why not bring them along?
Teardrop camping with dogs may seem intimidating, but in this guide we cover everything you need to know to have a successful trip with your furry friend. Let’s dive in!
Be Sure Your Dog is up for the Trip
While the idea of adventuring alongside your favorite companion may sound like a blast for you, it’s important to first consider your dog’s needs and boundaries.
Dog Temperament
There are always safe ways to bring reactive pets along for an adventure but sometimes it is best to avoid high stress environments that will make your pet more uneasy.
With this being said, if you have a dog that behaves well off leash be conscious that not every dog is comfortable with their space being invaded. Always leash your dog if you see other pets around until they have been properly introduced and you can discuss the comforts with the other pet owner.
Get Your Dog Comfortable with your Teardrop Camper
Teardrops are small and compact which could make your dog feel a little uncomfortable. Make sure you give them plenty of time to sniff around and adjust to the new and confined space.
Take your dog on a practice trip
Once you feel your pet is ready, take them on a shorter practice trip! This is the best way for you to see how they do in a vehicle and to test their reactions to the lapse in routine and daily comforts.
This is also a good time to practice your daily commands in new and distracting environments to be sure that your pet behaves as well on the road as they do at home. And it’s safe to assume that they will bring their bad behavior along with them if they’re a bit of a trouble-maker on their own turf.
Research Dog Friendly Locations
Before you hit the open road make sure you double check that the campsites you’ve picked out are dog friendly! Having a good place for your dog to get their energy out and maybe even interact with other dogs will make the trip more enjoyable for both of you. Check out these 10 Best Dog Friendly Campsites in the U.S.
Keep Your Dog Safe
As fellow dog lovers we know that keeping your dog safe is your top priority.
Leashes and Harnesses
Before you can start camping you need to get to where you’re going and when you have a pet along that means extra stops to stretch their legs and use the bathroom. Having a leash and harness that is comfortable while also secure is the key to a great adventure.
Keeping your pet safe in the vehicle is also important. Talk to your vet about the safest ways to travel based on your pets needs and check out this article for some helpful tips.
Campsite Tie Outs
Even dog friendly campgrounds have pretty strict leashing rules. While we understand the benefit of letting your dog wander and enjoy nature as much as you are these tie outs will ensure you are following the rules while keeping your dog close by.
Pet Tracking
Be sure that your pet is wearing a dog tag that clearly states your name and contact information just in case they get lost. You could even add some extra security by attaching an Apple AirTag to their collar or this interactive tag from LifeKey.
Help Your Dog Regulate Their Temperature
Keeping your pet a comfortable temperature can be tricky on the road. Make it easier by adding an AC unit and furnace to your teardrop trailer to ensure your pet is the perfect temperature all year round.
Related Reading: Climate Control: Teardrop Camper AC, Furnaces and Ventilation
Plan Ahead for Where Your Pet Will Sleep
Teardrop campers are compact. Be sure you have a plan on where your pet can lay their head after a day full of adventures and practice with the ahead of time so they can get comfortable quickly.
Be Sure Your Dog Has Everything They Need
We know that adding more stuff to your packing list means finding a place for it in your teardrop. Check out these storage solutions to ensure you don’t need to skimp on supplies for your pet.
Food
Bringing your dogs food along is a no brainer but it might also be a good idea to bring some extra servings just in case of mishaps. Keep your dog’s food fresh and conveniently stored with this gear tote.
Water
Even if you think you will have access to water at your campsite it is always a good idea to plan ahead and bring some extra bottled water along.
Do you plan to spend time adventuring away from your campsite? This water bottle for dogs will ensure your pet stays hydrated all day long.
Mess Bags
Cleaning up after your pet should be a top priority. Make sure you bring along plenty of poop bags like these biodegradable ones and have a plan of how to dispose of the mess when you’re not near garbages.
Medications and Vet Information
Plan ahead to make sure you have all the medications your pet might need during the trip and save any local emergency vet numbers in your phone just in case.
If you’re going to be spending time hiking in the woods its a great idea to talk to your vet about tick repellent medications to ensure you don’t bring home any unwanted hitchhiking pests.
A Piece of Home
Bringing along your pets favorite blanket or toy could make them feel more comfortable and secure in a new environment.
Take Your Pet on Your Next Adventure with Vistabule
Now that you have all the tools you need for a successful trip your favorite four legged companion be sure the check out Vistabule teardrop campers. Start building the perfect RV for the two of you to enjoy life on the road in luxury.
Stay tuned for the next article where we will cover “Teardrop Camping with Cats, And 1 Major Sign You’ve Lost Your Dang Mind”.
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