Camping And Traveling With Dogs

Via camping and national parks info as or May 2021

https://thedyrt.com/magazine/lifestyle/worst-national-parks-for-dogs-and-where-to-camp-instead/?fbclid=IwAR2GF9i1WR-hNCYdr1cTjWq-gl907oAAvNBQ03Zv9bDiKdOmuIQw5F9ZMsg

travel - dog friendly links

https://www.bringfido.com/?fbclid=IwAR2YiEnu--TlDcynbGA1I5JCCCERf3R4IWUObejNrbYKXmg7zwzLBofQdkA

other links well below should be checked as I have not updated since this covid malarkey... real but a lot of drama...

Beware of pups food intake and downtime requirements. Please see my notes on hypoglycemia
Some folks like to pick up their pups as part of a trip. A few suggestions to help that process with a puppy in addition to some comments on camping / traveling in general with your dog(s). I will suggest bringing or acquiring along the way bottled water as neutral to what your pet is used to drinking.  the same food they are used for the same reasons. You can figure the bowls - blankets - toys - etc tailored for your needs.

Keep the air conditioner or heat on when leaving your dog unattended. If you’re staying in an area with a warm climate, have a backup system in place for keeping your dog cool in case of power failure or an A/C malfunction while you’re gone.

There are 'apps' and sensors available that will alert you to your cell phone of temperature changes in your camper.   try a search  (camper temperature monitor for pets ) to learn more.  I have a 'dumb' phone so can't offer an opinion based on experience.  please feel free to advise me of options and suggestions on any dog product.

Always leave the air vents open with the fans on and beware of newer ventilation fans with built-in sensors that automatically shut vents if it rains. If your RV has these sensors, disable them before leaving your dog alone in the RV. Also, be sure to set out plenty of water before you leave.  for the dog in a crate add a water bottle. my favorite being the dog version of a rabbit bottle by lixit.

Bring a crate that can contain your dog safely in your camper. A freaked out dog can destroy a camper and even escape. If a crate not part of your hoe routine train your dog the the crate ahead of time. A spare bunk or even a dog bed stashed under the dinette table also make great spaces where your pup can go to relax and feel safe.

Bring comforts from home: Providing your pooch with a favorite blanket or toy will help it settle in to your home away from home. And be sure to keep favorite treats on hand for rewarding good behavior.

Clean up after your pet: Again, this is not only considerate, it’s a requirement in most campgrounds. Even if you’re dry-docking in the wilderness, picking up after your pup is better for the environment and the surrounding wildlife.

Locate the nearest storm shelter: Be sure your campground’s shelter allows pets, and keep a sharp eye on the weather reports, especially in areas prevalent for tornadoes or hurricanes.  see emergency plans elsewhere on my FAQ section.

Help your dog be a quiet neighbor: If your companion is prone to barking at the slightest disturbance, try using a fan or white noise machine to mask outside noises. I like a radio on a talk station or classical as background noise before and during a trip. Part of early puppy training here is fire crackers on the deck by 6 weeks old.  Acclimatizing your dog to  odd noises young helps later with fireworks - thunder storms - backfires - etc. When you need to leave your dog alone, take them on a walk first to release any pent-up energy and tire them out, and leave plenty of toys to keep them from barking out of boredom. If that doesn’t curb out-of-control barking, try an anti-barking device - there are many good options out there.
 
A good selection of decent brands and styles available at gundogsupply.com - note we have tested a number the cheap ones available at places like ebay and amazon and can say buyer beware or the 'inexpensive' think cheap in both meanings of the word. 
Bring the Right Gear

Besides your pet’s food, fresh water, bowls, leash and collar, grooming supplies, and all the comforts and necessities of daily life.   keep in mind the water your dog is accustomed to.  bottled water is neutral and available anywhere while well or 'city' water is different or may contain things like chlorine or fluoride your dog is not used to.

Think about activities you’ll want to engage in with your dog and pack accordingly. Here are some items you might want to bring along as your lifestyle or plans dictate.

1. Safety harness with a handle. be sure it is well attached taking your dogs weight into account.
2. Light that attaches to a leash or collar or vest - I have them on both sides of my service dogs vest. we also have collars that light all the way around and can be set to flash or just be on.  same option applies to leashes.
3. Dog life vest - look at styles as I see some of the newer ones take into account your dog could be knocked out the same as you could in a boating accident or get very tired swimming.  a 'flap' or neck 'ring' to support the head.
4. Water toys
5. Booties to protect paws in snow and ice ( think about ice melting chemicals also ) or on hot or rocky surfaces. be very aware that asphalt is HOT in the sun.  you can figure that one out standing still a few minutes and feeling it though your shoes.  think how it must be on 'bare' feet.
6. Dog sunscreen for nose, ears, and other exposed areas
7. Pet-friendly mosquito and tick repellent
8. Collapsible food and water dishes for your backpack if that is your style of camping.
9. Sun goggles to protect your pet’s eyes if your dog tolerates them - again something to try and get his used to ahead of the need.
10. Old beach towels for drying your pup off, mopping up messes or providing a surface to lie on shade umbrella
11. Folding or collapsible play pen for small dogs
12. Sweater or jacket for cold climates

Hotels
Many hotels accept pets as a chain. Red roof is one - as policies can change I suggest a quick search on traveling with pets for pet friendly hotels.  Not endorsing but as of December 2016  I found these quickly

http://www.officialpethotels.com/?refid=1385&refclickid=1385~G~E~pet-friendly-hotels&gclid=CMy-3tjo5tACFQ-NaQod2tID4A#axzz4SKfEcCOe

https://www.bringfido.com/lodging/

Identification
In the event that your dog gets away from you on your trip, you can increase the chances of recovery by making sure he can be properly identified.

Make sure your dog has a sturdy leash and collar. The collar should have identification tags with the dog’s name, your name, and your home phone number, as well as proof of rabies shots. If you plan on being away for more than a few days, consider purchasing a second identification tag giving the location and phone number of your vacation spot.

Consider a permanent form of identification, such as a microchip. your vet can help you with that or you can buy your own online and 'implant' it -  - it is just like a shot over the shoulder blades but has the chip instead of liquid.  I recommend avid as one of the best chips.  AKC has their own chip they sell.   avoid halo as we tried them and they migrated far away from site normally checked.

Bring a recent picture of your dog along with you, as well as a copy of his health records listing all of his recent vaccinations.

A crate is an excellent way to keep your dog safe in the car or camper and is required for airline travel. It can also keep your pet from getting into trouble in a hotel or at your host’s home. Crates are available from most pet stores and online.

Large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down.  for most uses I recommend a wire suitcase model crate.  see the airlines rules on what they require.

Stock the crate with a comfortable mat, your dog’s favorite toy, and a water bottle, and your dog is ready to go.

Be prepared for an emergency if there’s a situation where your dog needs medical attention, you need to be prepared with the necessary information on hand - especially true of any medical concerns out of the ordinary for your dog.

Get your dog used to the car by letting him sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides.

Avoid carsickness by letting your dog travel on an empty stomach. However, make sure he has plenty of water at all times.

Keep the car well ventilated. If the dog is in a crate, make sure that fresh air can flow into the crate.

Do not let your dog ride with his head sticking out of an open window. This can lead to eye injuries.

Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck. This is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or death.

Stop frequently for exercise and potty breaks is not only a good idea for you but for your dog as well. Be sure to clean up after your dog. military protocol is 15 minute break every 2 to 3 hours or every 100 - 150 miles driving - whichever is shorter.

Car rides are boring for everyone, so instruct your children not to tease or annoy the dog in the car.
Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a closed vehicle, particularly in the summer.

If you must leave the car, designate a member of the family to stay with the dog

Bring your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup before going on an extended trip. Make sure all his vaccinations are up-to-date; take shot records with you. A health certificate within 10 days of travel are required for airline travel for dogs as 'cargo'. = check with the airlines about small dogs as carry-on. there is usually a fee and will require a soft sided crate but don't usually require the health certificate.  be sure the airlines knows when booking as seating arrangement will be adjusted accordingly. Service dogs are the exception to the normal size / crate requirement in the cabin - noting a very large dog or flight over 8 hours duration will have further requirements.

When traveling by plane, plan to visit your veterinarian before your trip. Certification of health must be provided to the airline dated no more than 10 days before travel. Rabies certificates are also required for dogs over 12 weeks old. Your dog should be at least 8 weeks old.

Airlines make it clear that it is the owner’s responsibility to verify the dog’s health and ability to fly. Ask your veterinarian if it would be best for your dog to be tranquilized for the trip.  I have to make the point as cargo they ask if the dog has been sedated and will possibly turn you down if the dog is sedated - possible exception with veterinarian note. check ahead of time on that one. Also be sure to check the temperature of the flight’s starting point and destination; it may be too hot or too cold to be safe for your dog.

Federal regulations prohibit shipping live animals as excess baggage or cargo if an animal will be exposed to temperatures that are below 25 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours before departure, at arrival, or while making connections.

According to American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), air transport of sedated pets may be fatal. Over-sedation is the most frequent cause of animal deaths during airline transport and accounts for almost half of all deaths. Except in unusual circumstances, veterinarians should not dispense sedatives for animals that are to be transported. Little is known about the effects of sedation on animals that are under the stress of transportation and enclosed in cages at 8,000 feet or higher, the altitude at which cargo holds are pressurized. Additionally, some animals react abnormally to sedatives.

Although animals may be excitable while being handled during the trip to the airport and prior to loading, they probably revert to a quiescent resting state in the dark, closed cargo hold, and the sedatives may have an excessive effect. JAVMA, Vol 207, No.l 6, September 15, 1995 "An animal's natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium is altered under sedation," noted Dr. Patricia Olson, a director of the American Humane Association (AHA). "When the kennel is moved, a sedated animal may not be able to brace and prevent injury." Increased altitude can also create respiratory and cardiovascular problems for dogs and cats that are sedated or tranquilized. Brachycephalic (pug or snub nosed) dogs and cats are especially affected. Insight, May/June 1997

Rather than tranquilizing, pre-condition your pet to its travel container. According to the Air Transport Association, "As far in advance of the trip as possible, let your pet get to know the flight kennel. Veterinarians recommend leaving it open in the house with an old sock or other familiar object inside so that your pet will spend time in the kennel. It is important for your dog or cat to be as relaxed as possible during the flight." "Air Travel for your Dog or Cat", Air Transport Assn of America, Sept 1991 From the International Air Transport Association: "The airline industry continues to warn owners and veterinarians against the use of sedatives/tranquilizers for dogs and cats being transported by air.

The effect of sedating drugs are unpredictable at air pressures inside an aircraft, which are equivalent to 8,000 ft altitude. At this pressure, the physiologic changes from sedatives/tranquilizers may be enhanced. There have been a number of instances where sedated pets traveling by air needed veterinary care to recover from the sedation. Some pets could not be revived. Occasionally, owners have given repeated doses to ensure a comfortable journey for their pet or when sedation did not follow a single dose. When questioned by airline personnel, many owners claim that their veterinarians had advised them to do so. Although sedatives/tranquilizers should never be repeated for animals traveling by air, sedated pets may have adverse reactions in pressurized aircraft even when single doses are administered at recommended dosages.

Remember that each airline has its own variations on regulations and services. For example, if your crate doesn’t meet its requirements, the airline may not allow you to use it. They may, however, allow your dog in the passenger cabin if your soft sided carrier fits under the seat in front of you.

When making your reservations, you must make reservations for your dog. There are restrictions on the number of animals permitted on each flight. They are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you plan to travel by train or bus, you may be disappointed. Only dogs under 20 pounds are permitted on Amtrak trains (There is also a $25 fee). Dogs are not allowed on buses operated by Greyhound and other interstate bus companies. (Service dogs are permitted.) Local rail and bus companies have their own policies.

You may fare better if you’re taking a cruise. The QE2 luxury cruiser, which sails from New York to England/France, provides special lodging and free meals for your dog. However, you should check the policies of the cruise line or ship you will be traveling on before making plans to take your dog on a cruise with you.

Campgrounds
Most all accept pets. Our experience camping has been no extra fee. you will be expected to clean up after your dog and not allow it to be a nuisance to other campers. {simply put - proper etiquette for the dog owner}.

Some state parks want to limit the number of dogs you bring to their campground. Same with some national parks. Check the rules for each place you intend to stay or check for a state by state listing of the rules if you are not sure .  We have a large camper and have taken some of the 'kids' with us to shows / festivals/ etc.

For in the camper you have to decide what you want.  We have a few crates that stack to keep the younger 'kids' contained and out of trouble. The grown dogs take over the couch or the bed or whatever they feel like plopping themselves down.  I will suggest bringing or acquiring along the way bottled water as neutral to what your pet is used to drinking.  the same food for the same reasons. you can figure the bowls - blankets - toys - etc for your needs.

Tents Vs. Campers
It has been a few years since we tent camped but a couple comments.  A crate for your dog or pups since a tent wall is not a proper barrier for an untrained pup.  Our adults are happy enough with their own bedding and trusted in the tent with us.  I would never leave a dog unattended in a tent for safety sake.
In warm weather - your dog gets hot same as you.  Selecting a shady spot and a small fan can help. For non electric camping I have a foldout battery fan.  Solar rechargeable options exist. I mention these so you know the exist to do your own research
In cold weather.  of more importance to small dogs and young pups.  warmth is critical.  going beyond the little doggie coats which can help them keep warm the same as you wear a jacket. products for cold weather camping exist.  We used to have a catalytic heater - a little pricey but safe.  Mr Heater as a brand has a range of sizes starting with a nice small heater that goes on the quart size propane bottle. (please research heaters to fit your needs - some small ones can be hung in the tent.  Others have nice bases to make them stable. Pups should be crated to ensure they don't knock over a heater) again not an endorsement although we do have one similar.  info provided as thought provoking https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01DD6C4MY/ref=abs_brd_tag_dp?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
for camping with access to electric it gets cheaper and simpler -a small ceramic heater can be a nice option.

If you are fine in your sleeping bag without additional 'area' heat but are traveling with a small pup - a normal heating pad (Be sure it is not one that has a short timer but one that stays on - I would check to see what level warms the crate interior but will suggest medium to not over heat the pup or burn out the pad if under the crate) under the pups crate can provide enough warmth.  Cover the crate with a blanket - consider one of the Mylar blankets underneath as ground radiant barrier. Mylar blankets are good under your sleeping bags and a must for a winter travel emergency in the car. You can get the pocket version inexpensively and they are extremely lightweight yet their apparent flimsiness belies their effectiveness.  Except for a hiking lightweight pack prefer the heavier version (I like ours = this blanket - https://www.amazon.com/Grabber-Outdoors-Original-Weather-Blanket/dp/B002CQUA28/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481281087&sr=1-7&keywords=mylar+blanketDO )  we keep a couple in the car for winter emergencies. ( I recommend a winter emergency travel pack in your car - you can research appropriate things for your climate. Please consider your dog in your packing items )
Do NOT encase the crate with a non breathable blanket like the Mylar.  over the sides and back - ok. a normal blanket over the front ( large towel works )

Hiking
Depending on your situation  - such as backpacking. Products like collapsible food and water bowls or even fabric bowls exist for space and weight.  Pups can't be expected to hike a long distance like an adult dog can. consider a back / front pack for you to wear for your small dog or pup. Same rules apply to your dog as would a child. Don't set out on a 50 mile hike without being sure your dog is in physical shape for it. NOT endorsing and I have never used one but have seen similar in use... providing a link to stimulate your search ideas: https://www.amazon.com/Pettom-Carrier-Soft-sided-Outdoor-Backpack/dp/B01CFKO774/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1481278310&sr=1-2-spons&keywords=dog+backpack+carrier&psc=1

Taking This One Step Further: Consider the weather and pups comfort.  In cold weather consider the hand /foot heaters such as hot hands - some are good for up to 10 hours and do not give off fumes. A nice heater for your pocket that is reusable runs on butane. Not a brand endorsement but for your edification: https://www.amazon.com/Zippo-Warmer-Polish-Chrome-Lighter/dp/B000KGET4C/ref=sr_1_sc_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481281479&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=butant+hand+heat