Camping with Pets

Pet Allergies in a New Environment

June 22, 2018 by Dave Witzel

It’s fun to bring your pets along when you’re camping and they think it’s fantastic, too. They love the outdoors just as much as you do. It’s good for your mood, your health, and your sense of companionship. There are a couple of things to watch out for in making sure your pet has the best experience possible when visiting a new campground.

While pets can experience insect and food allergies, the most likely allergy you can experience when camping is environmental allergies. Your pet may be exposed to things at the campground that they don’t get exposed to in every day life at home such as grasses and pollens.

You may notice your pet sneezing more than normal or that might be licking their feet quite a bit. These are signs that something is affecting them. Fortunately, there are a few remedies you can try to get them back on track and feeling more comfortable again.

Benadryl is commonly used for pets and you should check with your Veterinarian to determine the proper dosage. This will help to alleviate the itching and sneezing, though it may make them sleepy – just as it does in humans. Wash and dry their paws thoroughly when you come in from the outdoors. Carefully check in between their foot pads to be sure nothing is lodged in them. This will assist your pet in removing the allergen and keeping the irritant outside instead of inside your camping vehicle.

If these simple strategies don’t help you may need something stronger, such as a prescription for you pet. Your Vet can advise you what is most likely to help, you may even want to visit your Vet before you leave for your camping trip. That way, you can have things on hand in case you need them.

We hope you and your pet have a wonderful stay with us and we look forward to meeting you soon.

How To Calm Your Pet During A Thunderstorm

June 3, 2017 by Dave Witzel

In case you hadn’t noticed, thunderstorms can make the most calm canines become filled with anxiety. It is frustrating when this happens and you have no idea how to react. The next time a storm is headed your way, use all of the following tips.

Play some calming tunes. One of the most frightening parts of thunderstorms are the booming claps. You can stop this from taking control of your dog’s emotions if you drown them out. Head to a part of your camper that does not have many windows and drown the sound out with soothing melodies. This will stop your pooch from being startled every time there is a loud sound.

Never leave your dog alone when you know that a storm is coming. This might seem like an inconvenience, but it is your responsibility as a pet owner. If you have to head out, place them in a carrier or crate and cover it with a thick blanket. This will prevent them from seeing all of the things they find so startling and it will provide a bit of a buffer from the noise.

Attempt to desensitize them to the sounds. Head to a site like YouTube and play videos that depict thunderstorms. Put them on at a fairly low volume for short spurts of time. As your dog listens, offer them treats and praise. Gradually lengthen the time you play the video and the volume until they seem to be unfazed.

There are people who are frightened at the mere thought of thunder, so it should not be surprising that this is something that can affect canines. Preparing yourself and adhering to the guidelines here should help you keep your dog calm the next time a storm rolls your way.

Pets And Camping: How To Keep Your Furry Friends Safe

April 1, 2017 by Dave Witzel

Camping can be challenging for humans, so you can only imagine the inherent risks that it presents for pets! However, if you want to take these members of your family with you when you head into the great outdoors, there are a few tips that can help you keep them safe.

1. Head To The Vet

Before you go on your camping trip, make a special visit to the veterinarian. Let him or her know what you are doing and make sure your pet has the appropriate vaccinations. There is a lot that your pet could get into while on the camping trip, and you want to make sure that this member of your family is as protected as possible.

2. Have A First Aid Kit

Not only do you need a first aid kit for the humans in your family, but you also need one for your pet as well. Your kit should contain everything you need to handle cuts and injuries. It should be sufficient to take care of your pet as long as there are no extenuating circumstances involved.

3. Think About Your Pet’s Personality

Does your pet get nervous easily? Does he or she have trouble getting along with other animals? Your pet’s personality can help you determine whether a camping trip is right for him. Think about what is best for your pet and make your decision on a case by case basis.

Most pets really enjoy being outside. Camping is a great way to expose them to nature and spend time with them. However, before you take your pet camping, you must be prepared. Bring all the items you need with you to ensure that your pet is happy and healthy during your vacation. We look forward to seeing you and your beloved pets here at Shenandoah Hills. Let us know if you need anything while your’e here.