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Contributed By: Jemma Mead
Eating instant noodles for the third night in a row whilst cooking a gourmet meal for your dog is normal behaviour, right? There may be a few of us in the Wild Earth HQ that have, what some may call, an unhealthy attachment to our four-legged friends. Let’s face it, they have us wrapped around their adorable little paws. As an outdoor enthusiast and self-professed crazy dog lady, there truly is nothing better than going on an adventure with my pets. It’s such a rewarding experience that I feel really strengthens our bond and trust… and I avoid the overwhelming guilt of leaving my furry mates at home, along with the anxious wondering if they think the pet sitter is cool.
Before heading out on my pet-friendly adventures, there are a few important things I always keep in mind:
1. Research Pet-Friendly Hikes and Campsites
Not all campsites in Australia allow pets so it’s essential to do your research beforehand. Look for places that explicitly welcome pets and take time to research the local wildlife you may encounter. It’s also important that your pets are wearing a secure ID tag at all times - you could even attach a GPS tracker to their collars.
2. Train and Socialise Your Pet
Make sure your pets are happy, well-behaved, and accustomed to being around other people and animals. Basic training commands like sit, stay, and recall are crucial for safety. Keeping your pets under control will protect local wildlife and avoid any potential encounters with dangerous animals.
3. Plan Activities and Be Prepared
Plan pet-friendly activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring. Remember to keep your pets’ fitness level and limitations in mind, make a note of the nearest veterinary centre, and always dispose of waste properly to preserve the natural environment.
4. Pack the Essentials
Pack enough food and water for the duration of your trip, plus extra in case of emergencies. Don’t forget the basics like waste bags, bowls, collars, and leashes (always bring spares!) You could also bring a portable shade or tent to protect your pets from the sun depending on your location.
5. Health and Safety
Ensure your pets are up to date on vaccinations and have received recent health checks. Use flea and tick preventatives and pack a pet-specific first aid kit, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any prescriptions from your vet.
We have an awesome expanding range of pet camping products at Wild Earth, so it’s only natural that my dogs have a gear space in the garage that is starting to rival my own. Here are a few of my top picks:
1. RUFFWEAR APPROACH DOG BACKPACK - CAMPFIRE ORANGE
Ruffwear is an awesome brand dedicated to enhancing the outdoor experience for dogs and their human companions. Specialising in high-performance dog gear, they prioritise comfort, safety, and durability, ensuring our dogs are always part of the pack. The Approach Pack is my standout product; a day hiking and light overnight dog pack that has radial cut saddlebags for efficient load carrying over the shoulders.
2. TICK TOX 35ML FREEZE SPRAY
Tick Tox is an Australian device that is designed to instantaneously kill ticks on people and pets by snap freezing. I’m sure most of us have dealt with countless of these pesky creatures whilst camping in grassy bush so make sure you have one of these pocket-sized cans at hand! The Coghlans Tick Remover will also come in handy if you happen to run out of spray.
3. RUFFWEAR MT. BACHELOR PORTABLE DOG PAD - TUMALO TEAL
The Mt. Bachelor Pad is a low-profile, portable camping dog bed that gives a sense of home in different environments. Roll it out as an easy resting place, then roll it up for easy portability on the go - from at home, to the car, to the campsite. The sleeping surface is made from a soft and easy-to-clean microsuede, and the non-slip waterproof base creates a moisture barrier keeping your pup cosy and dry.
4. FRANK GREEN PET POO BAG HOLDER - MINT GELATO
Poo pick up, but make it fashion. Cute, durable and crafted for quick and easy access, the Frank Green Pet Poo Bag Holder will boujee up the pooey part of pet parenting. It dangles quietly from its silicone strap and comes with 15 compostable, plant-based bags. Say goodbye to single-use plastics!
5. RUFFWEAR GRIP TREX DOG BOOTS - LICHEN GREEN
The Grip Trex dog boots set the standard in paw wear for dogs who hike, bike, run and explore the great outdoors with their humans. Thanks to the rugged and resilient Ruffwear-designed Vibram outsole, these boots provide exceptional traction and protection on varied terrain, allowing those paws to go the distance.
6. HYDRAPAK ROVER 500ML DOG BOWL
Keep your best friend hydrated with the Rover dog bowl. Lightweight and ultra-packable, it's easy for both dogs and people to carry and store. When empty, simply fold and roll, then clip it to a collar, leash, or pack for quick access on the trail.
7. RUFFWEAR AUDIBLE BEACON SAFETY LIGHT - RED CURRANT
Designed with the entire blind community in mind, the Audible Beacon uses audible signals and features bright LED lights for 360-degree visibility. It's waterproof, rechargeable, and easily attaches to guide dog harnesses and canes with a secure silicone mount. With up to 12 hours of run-time, the Audible Beacon provides a dependable layer of safety for both dog and handler.
8. RUFFWEAR ROAMER BUNGEE DOG LEASH - ORION BLUE
Another absolute winner from Ruffwear, The Roamer is an adjustable dog leash that can be hand-held or worn around the waist for a dynamic hands-free leash experience. This is an absolute game changer for runners, with the stretch webbing reducing any sharp jerks and pulls for you and your exercise buddy.
Not sure what gear you need for your adventure? Chat with our friendly team of Outdoor Gear Specialists in-store or online today and don’t forget to share your adventures with us on Instagram by tagging @wildearthaustralia and #mywildearth in your next post.
About the contributor:
Jemma is the Supply Chain Manager for Wild Earth but when the weekend rolls around, she trades in her computer for a dive mask and fins. Jem has spent the past 15 years working as a dive guide, skipper, and outdoor adventure guide alongside her roles in e-commerce operations... It's all about balance! When she isn't hanging out beneath the waves with turtles and whales, you can find her on a kayak or SUP adventure with her four-legged-friends in tow!
