Hamburg, August 23, 2022 – Whether two weeks in Sweden or over the weekend at the North Sea – camping is becoming more and more popular with many dog owners, because you have the opportunity to spend the holiday with your animal friend. pet expert Sarah Ross gives tips on what to look out for when camping with a dog.
Camping is a wonderful way to holiday with your pet. But even before you leave, some important things need to be taken care of. «Basically, of course, every dog should be chipped and registered,» says Sarah Ross. “Then it is important to clarify in advance whether dogs are allowed on the campsite and what the rules are. Some sites only allow dogs in the off-season, and others have certain breeds off-limits. You should also take a closer look at the surroundings. Because if dogs are allowed on the site, but the dog beach is 20 kilometers away, that may not be ideal. It is also worth checking in advance where the nearest vet is in an emergency.”
When packing, do not forget a bowl, leash, collar or harness and a muzzle. «Your favorite toy and a blanket should not be missing either, especially if there is no space for the dog bed. On site, you have to make sure that the dog is assigned a permanent place to sleep – regardless of whether you stay in a tent, camper or caravan,» advises the expert.
A journey together is an exciting experience for many dogs and strengthens the bond between animal and human. On the meadow, in a tent or even on a campsite, you don’t have the same opportunities to look after your dog as you do at home. Some owners who cook for their four-legged friends themselves or feed them raw therefore switch to conventional canned or dry food on vacation. «If you don’t want your dog to get diarrhea or stomach problems, slowly get used to the travel food in the days before the trip. Over four to five days you should slowly increase the proportion of new food and reduce the usual food,» says the pet expert.
In some countries, especially in Scandinavia, wild camping in nature is allowed under the so-called right of public access and compliance with certain requirements. In Germany you usually have to set up camp at a designated campsite. So that there is no trouble with the neighbours, it is important to respect the etiquette on the campsite. This means removing legacies, not walking the dog on playgrounds and not letting the four-legged friend walk around uncontrolled. «Even if the dog is very sweet, you can’t let your dog run off a leash on most campsites. This also applies to your own plot. Not everyone is an animal lover, some campers feel disturbed by curious dogs. You have to respect that, otherwise trouble is inevitable,” warns Ross.
A tent or RV can heat up just as quickly as a car. «You should never leave your dog alone – even if you’re just going to get bread. Even in late summer, the sun is still very strong and can quickly turn the camper or mobile home into a heat trap,” warns Ross.
Sarah Ross is available for interviews.