Follow These Tips When Camping With Pets
Is there anything better than gazing up at the star-studded night sky with your furry pal curled up beside you by the campfire? We don’t think so. At Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital, we understand the joy of camping with your pet and the importance of keeping them safe. That’s why our team has put together these camping tips to ensure your pet’s well-being during your outdoor adventures.
#1: Perform a tent trial run before camping with your pet
If this is your first camping trip with your pet, it’s a good idea to let them get accustomed to the tent beforehand. At Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital, we recommend setting up your tent in your backyard and allowing your furry friend to explore it. Let them sniff, lick, and walk around inside to become familiar with its scent, texture, and noises. Remember not to force your pet into the tent but instead reward them for being brave and exploring on their own.
#2: Ensure your pet is visible
Nighttime visibility can be challenging, especially if your pet has dark fur. To make sure they are easy to spot, Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital suggests using a reflective collar or harness for your furry pal. Alternatively, consider purchasing an LED collar to enhance their visibility in the dark.
During daytime hikes, it’s essential to make your pet highly visible. Neon colors can be a great aid in keeping track of your furry companion if they happen to wander off. Equip them with a bright orange collar or vest to ensure they stand out against the natural surroundings.
#3: Study up on pet first aid
When camping, accidents can happen. Your four-legged friend may encounter thorns, stumble down a hill, or even stumble upon a nest of stinging insects. In remote wilderness areas, it’s crucial to be prepared in case of an emergency. At Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital, we recommend studying pet first aid techniques to stabilize your pet’s condition until you can reach the nearest emergency veterinary hospital for professional treatment.
#4: Schedule a veterinary visit
Before embarking on your camping adventure, it’s important to ensure your pet is ready for the wilderness. Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital advises scheduling a visit to your veterinarian to make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and protected against common outdoor risks.
In addition to core vaccines, your veterinarian may recommend vaccinations against diseases like leptospirosis, which can be transmitted via wildlife urine, and Lyme disease, which is tick-borne. It’s also crucial to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Stock up on parasite prevention products before heading out to keep your pet safe and healthy.
Whether your pet needs urgent care after an encounter with thorny brush or requires updated vaccinations and parasite prevention before your outdoor adventure, the team at Bear Creek Veterinary Hospital is here for you. Give us a call to schedule an appointment and ensure your furry friend is well-prepared for your camping experience.