Camping with your pet brings the whole family together to enjoy the experience instead of leaving the four-footed member of the family behind to worry about.

It’s no fun to be cooped up in a kennel for a weekend or longer when the rest of the family is out having a good time. If your pet is physically able, well behaved and eager to go, wouldn’t it be nice to take him along for the trip?

Just as you would pack what items to bring along for you, don’t overlook what your pet may need to keep him comfortable too. Being prepared with the right essentials and equipment is the key to ensure a happy time on the road and in the woods. Keep in mind also of when and where you plan to camp. The time of year and geographical location of your campsite can make a big difference in how and what you prepare for your camping trip. Know what the weather conditions are likely to be and pack accordingly.

Consider these tips to make your camping experience with your pet more enjoyable:

* Check out the campgrounds, parks or wherever you plan to visit well in advance to make sure they accept pet campers. You can search Pet-Friendly Attractions on PetTravelCenter.com for these.

* Find out what types of facilities they have on site, such as dog runs, off-leash areas, drinking water, etc.

* Do they allow off-leash pets on nearby hiking trails?

*Is there a size restriction or a limit in the number of pets you can bring along?

Don’t forget about your pet’s safety in getting him to your destination either.

* Invest in a vehicle pet harness, seat belt or car seat (for smaller pets) to protect him (and you) in case you have to make a sudden stop or become involved in an accident. Unrestrained pets become deadly projectiles to other passengers. For example, did you know that an unsecured, 25-pound dog in a 40 mph crash becomes a 1,000-pound mass (half a ton) flying uncontrollably inside the vehicle?

* Never attach a restraining device to the pet’s collar inside a vehicle that could choke him or break his neck in a collision. A harness will help to prevent injury.

As you plan your trip, here are some items for your pet that may help make his (and your) camping experience more enjoyable:

* Pet tent and bedding. Who doesn’t like his own digs? A small, easily assembled pet tent gives everyone a better night’s sleep. A pet travel bed or cot keeps your pet off the ground and away from crawling bugs.

* Pet first-aid kit. An essential item to pack and should contain such things as antiseptic cream, assorted bandages, tweezers, eye drops, gauge, tape, and the like. Know what items are in your kit and how to use them. Phone numbers for your pet’s vet, the National Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435), and emergency pet hospitals in the areas where you plan to travel should be taken along. Visit Emergency Tips at PetTravelCenter.com for more information.

* Travel tag. A travel tag on a pet’s collar or harness will help someone locate you locally should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home), including addresses and phone numbers. A cell phone number is also a good idea since nowadays most people have one with them when they travel anywhere. Be sure to pack an updated photo of your pet that will also help identify him to others.

* Treats, food and water. Pack the appropriate amount of food and water for your pet (and you!). New innovations in pet travel products make it easy to take along portable or collapsible food and water bowls, pet backpacks that even have their own water supply.

Here are a few other essentials that you should consider for your pet:

* Protective dog shoes. For hiking in rough terrain or to protect from ice forming between toes in cold weather.

* Toys. A familiar chew toy is like a baby blanket and reinforcement to your pet. You may want to include two or three for a little variety or in case one becomes lost or your pet decides to hide one.

* Grooming supplies. Burs, beggar’s lice, hound’s-tongue… there are lots of names for all of those hijackers that get on pets and one’s clothing while in the woods. It’s advisable to have the right kind of brush to get those pesky things off your pet’s coat. Additionally, in case your pet gets into something he shouldn’t that may require a bath, some pet shampoo with you may do the trick. Pack some extra towels for drying or wiping muddy feet.

* Leash and harness. You should always have a means of controlling your pet when you travel. Some animals get very anxious when they’re in new territory and can become scared and run away or excited and want to explore. Be courteous of others in the campground, park or on the trail so they are not unnerved by a pet on the loose. Remember to check the leash regulations where you plan to romp with your pet before setting out. Wildlife such as snakes, skunks, porcupines, raccoons, bears, mountain lions, and coyotes can be a problem with a pet on the loose and can cause serious injury. Make sure your pet stays in close proximity to where you are hiking.

* Flea and tick repellant. Some products last several weeks to kill adult fleas (and larvae), ticks and mosquitoes. Consider treating your pet, according to the manufacturer’s directions, to make his camping experience more enjoyable.

Tom James
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/pet-travel-and-recreation-camping-with-pets-113517.html

A quality travel pet carrier helps provide a safe and secure place for your pet when traveling in cars, bicycles, motorcycles or airplanes. And a carrier should come with certain features for the comfort and safety of your cat or dog and you.

If you are searching for pet travel carriers, here are characteristics to look for:

1 – Securely Holds Your Pet – in a car, a sudden stop can mean your unsecured pet goes sliding or crashing onto the floor. The carrier should have a seat belt slot for securing with the seat belt or headrest. And seat belts for your dog will provide the security you’ll want when the unexpected happens.

2 – Protects the Car Interior – when you use your automobile to transport your pet, you’ll appreciate having a washable protective cover or pad that comes with the travel pet carrier.

3 – Provides a Comfortable Ride – the carrier seat back and bottom should be padded for the comfort of your pet. Both of you will enjoy being on the go knowing the padding ensures not only a secure ride, but one that is comfortable for them as well.

4 – Is Convertible – this means a quality travel pet carrier can be easily used in a car, on a plane, carried by you or used at your destination. Airlines have certain restrictions for carry-on baggage and carriers for stowing under a plane seat. Upon arrival at your destination airport, the carrier is easily carried by hand or perhaps convertible into a comfortable backpack with padded shoulder straps for ease of carrying.

If your pet needs to be secured in an automobile, it can be done in just a moment. Upon arrival at your place to stay, the carrier can be converted into a fold-out bed for their enjoyment.

5 – Has Storage Compartments – made well, a quality pet carrier provides you peace of mind and at the same time helps you keep their accessories organized and handy when needed.

As for traveling, is your pet an experienced traveler? If not, think about beginning to help your pet become accustomed to traveling so that a trip will not be something new for them. Make sure you make your car a fun place for your pet. Get inside the car with them and play, give them a treat and help them enjoy being in the car with you.

After doing this a few times, then take a brief drive with them. Do it again and increase the time and distance that you drive. The idea is to have them become comfortable in the car for extended periods of time before making a longer trip.

And remember to be very careful while taking vacations in warm or hot weather. Leaving your dog or cat inside the car can be deadly, even when the outside temperature appears to not be that hot. Car interiors can reach 100 degrees or higher, especially when parked in the sun. At these temperatures, it does not take long to cause serious harm to your pet.

Traveling can be a lot of fun and a safe experience for you and for them, and using a quality carrier can help make that happen. Keep the above characteristics in mind as you search online for that perfect travel pet carrier that will last for many fun years to come.

Copyright 2006 InfoSearch Publishing

David Buster
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/travel-pet-carrier-finding-a-quality-one-online-70966.html