In order for your dog to be safe and happy on the trip, camping takes a fair amount of preparation. Booking the site, packing the tent and lawn chairs, stocking up on firewood and organizing the food all go into the planning. But don't forget about preparing Fido for the family camping trip too. The following are some common risks Fido may encounter while camping, and some preventive measures to take to make it the most enjoyable trip possible.
Mosquitoes
When you think of camping it's hard not to think of mosquitoes and dogs are as susceptible to being dive bombed by pesky mosquitoes just like their human counterparts are. Did you know that mosquito bites can not only cause your dog to itch but may also cause Heartworm Disease?
Heartworms are parasitic worms that can be transmitted to your dog through the bite of a mosquito. Once these worms develop inside your dog they will reside, as adults, in the heart and may cause problems including: decreased exercise tolerance, coughing, and heart congestion.
Monthly preventive medications can be used, to ward off a heartworm infection during mosquito season, to keep your pet free of this potentially fatal infestation. Pet friendly bug repellents (that don't contain DEET which is toxic to pets) are also a great item to pack to keep the bugs away from Fido.
Ticks
Ticks are another external parasite that people and pets may encounter while camping. These small 8 legged pests are often found on blades of tall grass waiting for Fido to come by so they can latch on and take a blood meal. When this happens a tick may transmit the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium to your dog which can cause Lyme's Disease. Lyme's Disease is a disease that can cause signs including: lameness, joint swelling and pain, fever, and lack of appetite. The most common tick known for transmitting Lyme's Disease is the Deer Tick.
Tick collars, monthly spot on treatments, vaccinations, and being vigilant about checking your dog over and removing ticks swiftly (including the mouth parts) can all help in preventing Lyme's Disease in your dog. Check ahead of time and avoid camping with your dog in tick endemic areas to help decrease your dog's chances of getting the disease.
Giardia
Giardia, an intestinal parasite, is often encountered by people when the water they collect and drink while camping hasn't been properly sterilized. Wildlife feces infected with Giardia can unknowingly infect natural water sources and dogs which are known to drink out of puddles, streams, and creeks, are susceptible to Giardia.
Giardia can cause diarrhea and is a zoonotic parasite meaning that it can be transmitted to people from their dog. Vaccinations are available for Fido to decrease the chance of Giardia infection and should be considered before your next camping trip.
