Outdoor adventures with your pet can foster unforgettable bonding experiences and create cherished memories. However, ensuring your furry pal’s safety and well-being while out in the wild requires careful preparation. Our Stanton Pet Hospital team provides tips to help you navigate the wilderness while keeping your furry companion safe.

Research rules and regulations in pet-friendly areas

Before venturing into the wilderness, research pet-friendly trails and camping areas. Many national parks and state recreational areas have specific guidelines regarding pets, including leash requirements, seasonal or regional pet bans, and designated camping zones. By researching the regulations before you go, you avoid unpleasant surprises or the need to change your plans at the last minute.

Build their endurance if your pet is out of shape

Pets need time to build their endurance and strength for outdoor adventures to avoid muscle soreness, strains, or joint pain from weekend warrior syndrome. If you plan to hike long distances or trek to a campsite far from your vehicle, use the week leading up to your trip to increase your pet’s physical activity gradually. Walking, playing, or chasing a ball can help accomplish this goal.

Keep your pet secure

Some areas may permit off-leash hiking, but a leash is the best way to keep your pet safe. Unleashed pets who venture off the trail can encounter wildlife, step on sharp objects, trip over uneven ground, or become separated from you and get lost. A sturdy leash keeps your pet nearby, and a high-quality harness designed for adventure can help you store essentials and lift or assist your pet when encountering rugged terrain. We also recommend teaching pets recall and “leave it” commands in case you need to call them quickly away from danger.

Use flea, tick, and heartworm prevention on your pet

Pets will likely encounter fleas or ticks while camping. These parasites’ bites can cause skin irritation or systemic disease. Our team can recommend an effective tick and flea preventive to administer to your pet before you leave. These products kill fleas and ticks for a month or more. Heartworm prevention is also critical for pets spending time in wooded areas, where they can be exposed to infected mosquitoes. Additionally, perform regular tick checks on yourself and your pet, and immediately remove any you find.

Pack the necessary gear for your pet

Traveling with pets requires some extra equipment and supplies. Pets should have legible identification tags on their collar and a microchip to identify them if they get lost. Additional supplies you’ll need include:

  • Food, water, and collapsible travel bowls
  • Your pet’s daily medications
  • Pet first aid kit
  • Protective gear such as a cooling vest, a winter coat, and booties
  • Waste bags

Prevent your pet from overheating

Outdoor activities in warm climates increase pets’ heat-related illness risks. Your pet is overheating if they exhibit signs that include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or disorientation. Take regular breaks in shaded areas, and don’t push your pet for too long without resting. Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day or planning trips where you won’t have access to air-conditioned facilities during the hottest months of the year. Flat-faced (i.e., brachycephalic), overweight, and senior pets have a high heatstroke risk and may not be the best candidates to accompany you on a hiking or camping trip.

Keep your pet away from wildlife

Exercise caution and consider local wildlife when exploring natural areas with your pet. Keeping your furry pal on a leash, staying on established trails, and camping in designated areas can minimize the risk of encounters with dangerous animals. Maintain a safe distance if you see a wild animal and avoid disturbing them with noise or allowing your pet to bark or chase them.

By following our camping and hiking tips, you can reduce your pet’s likelihood of becoming injured or ill during a camping trip or hike, but accidents can happen. Know where the nearest emergency care facilities are located and keep their phone numbers handy if you are far from home and the Stanton Pet Hospital team. Contact us to schedule your pet’s pre-trip health check, stock up on flea and tick medications, or learn more about keeping your furry pal safe outdoors.