Dog Kit

This is a very large, old Lands End duffle in which we carry all of the dog gear for the trip.

Packing Comments

Brush

For getting out the sticks and other assorted items that seem to be magnetically attracted to his fur.

Furminator

This almost magical device removes amazing amounts of undercoat. A bit pricey but we feel it has been worth the money.

Tie Out Line

Length of line kept with the vehicle at base camp with a carabiner on one end for easy on and off access.

Towels

For those wet or muddy dog days. Truly necessary.

Food Bowl

An old standard that Jake has had his entire life. Not cinch-able like his pack bowl since we can just dump any leftovers (right!) back into the bag.

Water Bowl

Again, an old standard for base camp.

Water Container

We have special marked bottles for Jake's water since we do not treat his. Be very careful if you and your dog have bottles that look the same!

Bed

This is more important than it seems. A lightweight travel bed from Ruff Wear called "the bachelor pad" is something we keep out on top of his bed at home so when we bring it along on trips, Jake always knows where he is supposed to be sleeping.

Toys!

A personal favorite of Jake is the "Flying Squirrel" but tennis balls come in a close second. We bring just one or two to, again, make him feel comfortable with things from home.

Base Camp Food

We buy the highest energy dog food available. Ask your local pet food supplier; she should be able to steer you in the right direction.

Base Camp Snacks

Again, high energy to keep Jake fueled.

Pills/Medicine

This will depend on your dog. We give Jake glucosamine with all his meal. Rimadyl or some other pain reliever if soreness issues become a problem (sometimes early in the trip, at the same time we're dosing ourselves with ibuprofen).

Post-Trip Comments

Everything we brought for the dog we used. We probably could have left the toys behind, because he just played with sticks and rocks instead.