If you can’t stand the idea of leaving your furry friend behind and heading off on a camping trip, the good news is that you don’t have to. There are plenty of pet friendly bush camping sites across the country that let you bring your best friend with you – and Murphy’s Creek Escape is one of them!
Travelling with your dog is a great way to bond, both with your pet and with your family. The excitement and love your pet experiences from being included on your family trip is absolutely priceless. This is an opportunity for them to stick their nose out the window, explore new places, discover new smells and most importantly, just hang out with you. Watching this all unfold will undoubtedly bring your family and friends closer than ever and produce memories that will last forever.
While pet friendly bush camping is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure both you and your pup have the best possible trip.
1. Check Vaccinations, Worming and Local Regulations
Specific rules and regulations for camping with your dog will differ between states, regions and campsites. To be on the safe side, we suggest ensuring your pooch is microchipped and up to date with all of their vaccinations and worming.
This safety precaution will not only mean you will comply with the local rules, but it will also give you the peace of mind that your pup will be safe while you’re away. With that extra layer of protection, you’ve got all the more reason to get adventuring and exploring with the entire gang. If you’re unsure what is required, try ringing ahead to chat to the campsite team or getting in touch with your local vet.
2. Find a Suitable Campsite
It goes without saying that you need to pick a campsite where dogs are permitted, but we also recommend researching what other facilities are available on-site. It’s a good idea to call ahead and let the campsite team know that you’re bringing your pup along (if you haven’t already!) to get a bit more information. A few questions you might consider asking include:
- Is there a dog bathing area where your pet can cool off during warmer weather?
- What designated play areas are available?
- Can you walk your dog around the campsite?
- How much open space is there around the campground?
- Do dogs always need to be on a leash?
- Are other campers safe from your dog?
3. Take the Right Gear
Time to start packing for your next camping trip? Head here to see our full camping checklist for the humans of your trip, but there are some essential items that you need to pack for your furry friend too. Most campsites require dogs to be on a leash in at least some areas of the campsite, so we suggest packing an extra-long lead. Having the additional distance up your sleeve will give your four-legged friend some room to adjust to the new environment, without venturing too far from your site. It’s also a great idea to bring along some familiar items from home to make the transition smooth. This could include a basket to nap in, squeaky toys or even their favorite blanket.
When it comes to packing food, we always recommend packing more than you think you’ll need. Keep in mind that you’ll probably have limited access to a fridge or freezer though. If you’re camping in a tent or swag, it’s probably easiest to stick with dry food or chewy snacks and treats. But if your dog is used to fresh meat, consider introducing your alternative food options a few days before you head away so that they have some time to adjust to the change.
4. Ensure that your dog remains cool or warm
Dogs just don’t cope with weather extremes as well as we do. They feel both the cold and the heat far more than their owners, so it’s important to plan ahead by checking the weather forecast and packing accordingly. If you’re expecting warm and sunny weather, make sure that your dog has access to a pleasant, sheltered spot for during the day. That could be under the shade of the trees next to your campsite or underneath a gazebo or awning.
It’s also super important to ensure that there’s plenty of fresh drinking water available at all times, even when you’re on the road. It’s a great idea to take a few large water bottles and a bowl so that you can give your pup a drink when you make stops along the way. Overheating in dogs also occurs rapidly and can be fatal. Never leave your dog alone in a vehicle on a warm day, even with an open window.
It goes without saying that the same rules apply for cool weather. If you’re expecting the temperature to drop while you’re away, be sure to have a nice and warm spot for your dog to curl up – especially at night-time, when it rains or during winter. Although it may be colder, it’s still just as important to have a good supply of water for your pup at all times.
Read More: Dog Friendly Private Camp Grounds near Brisbane
5. Sharing your tent or caravan
Some dogs take longer to adjust to a new environment than others. If you think your pup might be feeling a little overwhelmed with the change, we suggest letting them sleep close to you. That might mean in their own sleeping compartment within your tent or placing their basket directly in-front of your tent or caravan entrance.
Giving your furry friend something familiar to be around will help reduce any stress or insecurity during the trip. If your dog is a bit vocal, particularly at night, this is a great way to ensure they don’t disrupt any nearby campers or wildlife. Sharing your tent or caravan also keeps your pup safe during the night and means you’re more likely to be able to enjoy your time together during the days! What’s not to love about that?