Why Camping Is Great for Dogs
Dogs thrive on natural stimuli — new scents, forest sounds, open space. Well-planned camping strengthens the bond, tires the dog healthily and is often far less stressful than leaving them at home or in a boarding kennel.
Packing List for Your Dog
Essentials
- Vaccination records and documents (microchip, vaccines, parasite treatment).
- Food for every day + one extra day's emergency supply.
- Plenty of water + a travel water bottle or bowl.
- Up-to-date parasite prevention — ticks are far more common outdoors.
- Sturdy lead and collar with current ID tag.
- Dog bed or blanket with a familiar scent.
- Poo bags.
Recommended
- Basic first-aid kit: antiseptic, tick remover, gauze, bandage, antihistamine.
- Head torch for evening walks.
- Long line (10–20 m) so the dog can move freely around the pitch.
- Absorbent towel.
- Favourite toy.
Typical Campsite Rules for Dogs
- Lead required throughout the site.
- Proof of rabies vaccination.
- Dog must not be left tied up and unattended.
- Pick up waste immediately.
- Respect dog-free zones (pool, restaurant, children's play area).
- Control barking, especially at night.
Safety in Nature
- Ticks: check your dog every evening. Remove with a tick twisting tool. Up-to-date tick prevention is the best defence.
- Blue-green algae: avoid any still water with a greenish tint — highly toxic to dogs even in small amounts.
- River water: can carry leptospirosis or giardia. Always carry fresh drinking water.
- Night temperatures: mountain nights can be cold even after a hot day. Insulate the dog's bed from the ground.
- Escape risk: unfamiliar surroundings increase the likelihood of bolting. Microchip plus a clearly labelled collar are essential.
Consideration for Other Campers
Keep your dog away from neighbouring pitches, manage barking (a well-exercised dog barks less) and always ask before your dog approaches strangers.
Before you leave, make sure your dog's full profile is up to date in Purzi — if you need an emergency vet on the road, all vaccination and health data will be there on your phone.