This coming weekend (June 21-June 23, 2024) is our annual Humane Animal Partners (HAP) fundraiser. HAP will be onsite with dog adoptions and fun and games at Homestead Campground.
For those of us with pets (Jenn and I have 3 fur babies ourselves) know just how big a role they play in your life. Traveling with your pet is not only an enjoyable experience, but in some cases, a requirement.
Being a responsible pet parent involves following a set of unspoken (and written) rules that facilitate a safe and enjoyable camping experience for everyone here at Homestead. Here are seven key rules to abide by.
1. Inform the campground of your dog’s arrival
Letting the campground know about your dog allows them to inform you of specific pet amenities and policies, ensuring a smooth stay for all. For instance, pet records are required to be up to date and available upon request. Failure to do so can (and probably will) result in your pet being banned from the campground or worse- result in a lease termination.
It also helps the staff prepare for any additional resources or assistance you might need to accommodate your pet.
2. Keep your dog safely contained
To ensure the safety and comfort of all campers, always keep your dog contained within your site, whether in an RV or using a portable fence.
Keeping your dog within the bounds of your campsite prevents them from becoming a nuisance or danger to others and shows respect for the shared space. A well-contained dog also reduces the risk of unexpected encounters with wildlife or other pets.
3. Leash your dog during walks
Outside of being a requirement at the campground, leashing your dog, whether you are at the campground or on the trail, is an important safety measure. Keeping them on a leash prevents them from straying and protects local wildlife, ensuring that all inhabitants of the campground can coexist peacefully. It also respects the personal space of fellow campers who may be apprehensive about dogs.
4. Prevent lunging and barking at other campers
Discourage your dog from barking or lunging at other campers by training them with positive reinforcement and keeping them engaged and occupied while at your campsite. By preventing your dog from lunging and barking, you maintain a tranquil atmosphere at the campground and demonstrate consideration for the comfort of others. Animals deemed dangerous, could be ejected from the campground.
5. Pick up after your dog
One would think this goes without saying, but promptly cleaning up after your dog is a basic aspect of being a considerate camper. Diligently cleaning up after your pet avoids the unpleasantness of left-behind waste and preserves the natural beauty of the Campground for everyone to enjoy. There are receptacles available throughout the Campground for your use.
It’s also a public health practice, as pet waste can be a carrier for diseases. Just a heads up - our dog parks are now equipped with cameras to help us monitor the areas and identify individuals who are not abiding by this rule.
6. Discourage digging at the campsite
Preventing your dog from digging not only helps to keep the Campground intact but also avoids potential injuries. Promptly refilling any holes helps to prevent accidents and preserves the site for future campers.
7. Minimize barking when alone in the RV
Prevent excessive barking or howling when your dog is alone in the RV by ensuring they are well-exercised and comfortable with being alone before embarking on your outing. Minimizing barking helps maintain a quiet environment and reduces stress for both your dog and your camping neighbors. A quiet dog is often a content dog, and ensuring your pet’s comfort can contribute to a relaxing experience for everyone.
Here's a few links to making camping with pets fun and enjoyable
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