Our backyard is easily one of the best things about living in the Okanagan, especially during the summer months when we get to explore to our hearts content in the beautiful parks that surround us.
We love taking our dogs out camping with us, and I wanted to break down their packing list for you so you can make sure you don’t forget anything on your own adventures this summer!
I have raved about the use of backpacks before; not only do they allow the dogs to feel like they have a purpose and work harder, they actually will work harder and have a purpose because, guess what?
They can carry all their own stuff (and some of yours, too)! My favourite packs come from Ruffwear (which can be purchased at MEC, Atmosphere, or Pounce and Hound here in Kelowna) – they’re Hudson tested, which means they are durable as heck and incredibly well made.
Water in first. Whether you want to use big water bottles or opt for a bladder option, everyone gets to carry their own.
Carry a collapsible water bowl to avoid wasting precious H2O – again, Ruffwear makes a great one, or you can get silicone ones on a carabiner.
Food next! You all know I am pro-raw, but I am not getting attacked by a bear so my dogs can have raw meat in the wilderness. We purchase a high-quality kibble (like PetKind or Acana) and pre-portion it into Ziplocks before we head out – generally a little more than usual because they work harder on hike days and are hungry!
If you’re going on a multi-day trek, look into dehydrated food - it tends to be slightly more expensive but is lighter to pack. And forget bowls, they add unnecessary weight. I usually find a nice patch of grass they can forage through, which also provides great mental stimulation (natures snuffle mat).
If your tent or the vestibule of it is big enough, by all means, let the dogs in. We generally set up a little A-frame (just make sure you remember rope) or let them sleep under the stars. If you want, you can even purchase lightweight dog beds from (you guessed it) Ruffwear!
Speaking of rope, bring some - whether you use it for a shelter set up, or tie the dogs up at night, it’s handy to have. We use paracord because it does the trick and is super light weight.
Throw that in with a basic first aid kid (tweezers, vet wrap, polysporin) and you’re good to go!
Lastly, even though you may not need them, don’t forget leashes. You never know what (or who) you will run into out hiking and being able to keep the dogs close by may end up being for safety purposes or simply courteous.
If your dog is new to the backpack, start with a light load and progressively add more weight. They should only ever carry around 25% of their body weight (dependent on breed, physical ability, etc).
You can start training them with a pack on regular, old neighbourhood walks and quicker day hikes so they get used to lugging it around. Make sure to keep weight relatively even on both sides of the pack!
As with all hiking and camping trips, make sure you are well prepared before heading into the forest for both your dog and your own safety! Happy trails!
Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook and Instagram @okpetproject, and, as always, you can read more articles like this on our website,www.okpetproject.com.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
