Camping with your pets

As the weather slowly starts to warm up, some of us will be planning our next camping adventure. If bringing your furry friend along for the ride, a little planning can significantly reduce the risk of a holiday poisoning disaster.

On arrival at your campsite, it’s a good idea to do a quick inspection of the area to identify anything that may be hazardous to your pet. If you are camping within a designated campground, ensure that there are no readily accessible rodent baits which dogs often find attractive and will readily eat. If you are camping in a rural area that may be baited with mammalicides such as 1080 or PAPP, it is absolutely crucial that you leash your dog when walking and do not let your dog have free range access to the surrounding area. Whilst it can sometimes be a challenge, keeping your pet supervised and confined to your immediate campsite when unleashed can prevent instances of poisoning or envenoming whilst camping.

In the summer months, heat stress and dehydration can result in serious illness. When camping, always ensure that your pet has a shady retreat and ample supply of fresh and clean water. Provision of fresh water is also very important when taking your pet to the beach, as those that drink sea water can be at risk of salt poisoning.

When camping, items may not be stored as securely as they typically are at home. This may give inquisitive pets a chance to eat things that they shouldn’t. Please ensure that your camping equipment, food, and medication is stored out of reach of your pet or secured in pet-proof storage such as plastic crates with clip locks. Some common camping poisons include firelighters, sparklers, medication, human food (such as sultanas and xylitol containing gum or lollies), and sunscreen.

☎️ If your pet has ingested something they should not have, please phone the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for advice. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides a free service for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand, and we can rapidly determine if your pet requires immediate veterinary assessment or can be observed at home.
The Animal Poisons Helpline is proudly sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Their support helps to keep this service FREE for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition: Premium pet food backed by science. From their days as puppies and kittens to their years as senior dogs and cats, Hill’s nutrition starts with science for differences you can see, feel and trust.

Visit www.hillspet.com.au to learn more.