Our number one tip for adventuring with dogs is to know and follow the rules wherever you take them.  Follow them to keep your dog safe, and avoid a hefty citation for taking your dog where it is prohibited.

DOGS – TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL ADVENTURES

Camping With Dogs

When camping with dogs, always follow the rules of the campground.  Rules about pet waste, off limits areas, leash requirements, unattended pets, noisy pets, and breed or size limits are common.  Further, proof of vaccinations may be required.  Find out the rules in advance of booking your reservation or arriving at the campground.  In camp, follow them because the consequences for breaking campground rules often include fines or being asked to leave.

One thing common to every campground we have visited is that dogs are not allowed in restrooms, developed campground facilities, or beach areas.  Service and assistance dogs are allowed in most places, however, as a matter of law.   Otherwise, campground rules apply to all dogs.

Dogs and Wildlife

Dogs and wildlife are not good together.  Not only can your dog get into a tangle with a predator, it can also adversely affect the habitats or seasonal migrations of other animals.  As such, dogs are not allowed where park rangers or local officials have determined that dogs and wildlife are not compatible.  Please respect those rules.  Ignoring them may subject you to a citation and a hefty fine. 

Conversely, many areas allow dogs even when predatory or other dangerous wildlife is present.  Fortunately, if such an animal is nearby, your dog will know it before you do.  An uplifted nose, tense body, raised fur, growling, or barking are signs your dog senses danger.  If you see this behavior assume a large predator is in the area.  If your dog is off leash, leash it, stay alert, and move away quickly.   

Unleashed Dogs – Safety Issues

Always keep a close eye on your dog when you are on an adventure, and use a leash when necessary for safety.  Leashes are usually required where wildlife, heavy seasonal usage, or multi-user concerns are present.  Places without these concerns typically allow unleashed dogs.  However, even if a leash is not required, it is nonetheless prudent to use one.  For example, a short leash helps prevent dogs from meeting up with poisonous reptiles or insects.  Further, a leash keeps them under control for everyone’s safety on multi-user trails.  Finally, a leash will prevent a dog from pursuing wildlife that runs.  Consequences not only include them getting lost or injured, they might lead a dangerous predator right back to you.