Dealing with Unexpected Weather While Camping with Pets
With our next trip just around the corner, I have been busy packing with one primary concern: the uncertainty of the weather.
Will it be sunny skies? A sudden downpour? A surprisingly chilly evening?
The potential for unexpected weather is high in the spring, but weather shifts can happen any time of the year, regardless of our destination or the latest weather forecast.
From boisterous thunderstorms to unexpected cold snaps (or heat waves), understanding how to prepare for and respond to these changing conditions is a must for any pet-friendly adventure lover!
In this post, I will share tips and tricks to help you confidently navigate whatever weather conditions may come your way on your next trip.
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Pre-Trip Planning and Preparation
Preparing for the weather starts before you even leave home. A little careful research, thoughtful packing, and ensuring you have a proactive emergency plan are the best ways to set yourself up for success.
Check the Weather (and Check it Again)
Start checking and monitoring the weather in the days and weeks leading up to your trip.
Don’t rely on a single app or website; cross-reference information from local forecasts, specialized weather apps, and, if available, reports from park rangers at the park you’re planning to visit.
This includes checking out the social media accounts for your destination for real-time updates.
Some weather apps/websites we use include:
Go beyond the immediate forecast and research the typical trends and weather patterns in that area at that time of year.
For example, if an area regularly gets thunderstorms during your planned timeline, you may want to be prepared for one, even if it’s not in the current forecast.
Some areas are known for experiencing dramatic weather changes. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Packing the Right Gear
Now that you have an idea of the weather conditions you can expect during your trip, it’s time to equip yourself and your pet with the gear needed to stay safe and comfortable.
For your dog or cat, this could include weather-appropriate clothing such as:
- Raincoats to keep them dry
- Cooling vests to prevent overheating
- Insulated jackets for warmth in cooler temperatures
- Boots to protect their paws
Take a moment to consider your bedding plans for your pup. Waterproof (or water-resistant) insulated bedding will offer them a comfortable place to sleep, regardless of the elements.
You may also consider investing in a raised bed to keep them off the ground.
Pack extra food and water, as unexpected weather could delay your trip beyond your planned timeline.
A pet-friendly first-aid kit is one of the most important things you can pack for any outdoor adventure. This is a non-negotiable!
Finally, pay attention to your shelter choices and whether they are suitable for the weather conditions.
You may need to make changes or incorporate additional options like a tarp for overhead cover or pet-specific tents for added protection.
If you can park near your campsite, you can also use your vehicle as a safe haven if necessary.
Develop an Emergency Plan
Most weather conditions can be handled at the campsite using the right gear, but in severe weather conditions, you’ll need a greater emergency plan.
Identify potential safe zones within the park/campground near your campsite, such as sturdy buildings or your vehicle, where you and your pet(s) can head for cover.
Make communication plans with the others camping with you and your family/friends at home. Select an emergency contact who can keep others updated, so you only need to reach out to a single person in the stress of the moment.
Additionally, ensure you have a way to receive weather updates and contact emergency services if needed.
This could range from planning a solution to keep phones charged and knowing local emergency numbers to investing in a satellite communication option when travelling into the backcountry.
One consideration that is often overlooked when travelling (but used at home) is having a readily accessible “go-bag.”
In an emergency, you don’t want to be packing up your campsite to have the gear necessary for your pet’s care.
For this reason, we keep a “go-bag” packed in the vehicle with the basics, including extra food, water, medication, a basic first aid kit, a flashlight, and the necessary documentation (like vet records).
Navigating Specific Weather Challenges
In addition to general weather-related preparations, each type of unexpected weather presents unique challenges when camping with our pets.
Here are a few specific weather challenges to consider, depending on the details of your next adventure (location and time of year):
Rain and Thunderstorms
Camping in the rain isn’t the end of the world – I have enjoyed many great trips despite a light rain or short-lived downpour.
However, there comes a time when a storm crosses the line from the relaxing sound of rain on the tarp to a potential safety concern for you and your pet(s).
Watch out for darkening skies, increasing wind, distant thunder, and lightning.
At the first sign that a larger storm is rolling in, you should immediately secure anything on your campsite that could be blown around or damaged.
Find a way to keep your pet secure and comfortable. This could be with you in the tent/trailer or in a vehicle.
Keep in mind that most pets won’t want to be separated from their humans during times of stress. So, the best place is usually right by your side, wherever that happens to be, especially if storms make them nervous.
Even if your pet wants to go out in the rain (before it gets too heavy), ensure they have a dry place to rest at the end of the day.
During thunderstorms, lightning poses a significant risk. Avoid open areas, tall trees, and metal options.
If you’re tent camping in the front country, sheltering in your vehicle is safer than the tent in the worst lightning storms.
When backcountry camping, avoid being near water. Find a ditch or a gathering of trees all of similar, lower height to avoid being near the highest object in the area.
Extreme Heat
Summer is arguably the most popular season to go camping (although I’ll confess, I prefer the shoulder seasons, fall and spring camping).
However, with all that beautiful sunshine comes the risk of heat-related illness.
Learning to recognize the early signs of heatstroke or heat exhaustion in your pet is vital. This includes:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Rapid heartbeat
- Weakness
- Collapse
In hot weather, you need to prioritize ways to actively keep your pet cool. This starts with providing ample shade to allow them to escape the sun’s hot rays.
If there is natural shade available, enjoy! If not, consider creating shaded areas using tarps or a dining shelter (we love our KUMA Bear Den Gazebo).
Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, cool water.
If you’re camping in a trailer, RV, or cabin with access to a freezer, K&H Pet Products makes a freezable water dish that they claim will keep their water cold for up to 15 hours (we haven’t fully tested that claim yet).
Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Save your big hiking plans for the cooler morning or evening hours.
Other popular cooling techniques include applying cool, wet towels to their body (especially the groin, armpits, and neck) and offering a cooling mat for them to lie on.
Cold Weather
Winter camping and hiking aren’t for everyone (and that’s okay), but I find there is a unique peace you only experience when exploring a true winter wonderland.
Of course, those cold temperatures also come with potential risks for your pet.
The first question you must consider is how cold is too cold for your pet, and the answer will be different for everyone.
For example, a northern pup like a Siberian Husky will be comfortable in much colder temperatures than a short-haired dog like a boxer.
Be vigilant for signs of hypothermia in your pet, such as excessive shivering, lethargy, weakness, and disorientation.
If your dog is slightly more sensitive to the cold, you can keep them comfortable with the right gear.
Lucifer loves playing in the snow, but on the colder days, he needs his winter jacket and boots to play outside without shivering.
Regularly monitor your pet anytime you’re outdoors in the cold. Don’t be afraid to “call it” and seek warmer shelter if you notice any signs of discomfort.
High Winds
Strong winds may not come to mind when thinking about severe weather emergencies, but they can create dangerous conditions at the campsite.
Before the wind picks up, ensure any loose items are secured to prevent them from being blown away, lost, or causing injury.
Keep your pet close and under careful control. High winds can disorient them or cause some dogs to bolt.
In severe windstorms, seek a sheltered area that provides protection from the wind, such as in your vehicle, a walled structure (where pets are permitted), or even behind the barrier of large rocks.
Wherever you go, be cautious about falling branches or trees.
Making Smart Decisions in the Moment for You and Your Pet
Even with careful pre-trip planning, the reality of unexpected weather is that it is precisely that – unexpected. It often requires quick thinking and a calm, rational mind.
Your ability to evaluate the situation, adapt your plans, and use available resources will make a world of difference in your ability to keep your best friend (and yourself) safe.
Evaluate the Situation
When faced with unexpected weather conditions, take a step back and assess the severity of the situation.
Is it a passing shower? A developing thunderstorm?
A gradual increase in heat? A significant drop in temperature?
Consider the immediate risks as well as whether it might escalate. This will help you decide if it’s safe to continue with your planned activities or if you need to seek shelter.
Knowing when to adjust your expectations or change your plans based on the weather is a clear sign of a responsible pet parent and experienced outdoor adventurer.
Adjust Activities
You may have to modify your plans and activities depending on the weather conditions.
Outdoor excursions, like hiking and canoeing, may need to be shortened significantly or postponed altogether.
The priority should always be the safety and comfort of your pet!
Remember that their tolerance for extreme weather may differ from yours. Pushing them beyond their limits could risk serious health issues.
It’s best to err on the side of caution and choose safe and enjoyable activities for everyone involved, given the current weather conditions.
Make Use of Available Resources
Don’t hesitate to make use of the resources available to you.
Park Rangers are often an invaluable source of information regarding current weather conditions, potential hazards, and safe areas.
Stay informed by checking the weather on your phone.
I love the text message alerts from Instant Weather. Before I leave home, I set them up to alert me about the area I’m visiting, allowing me to get all the latest news, even if there is spotty or no data.
Additionally, don’t underestimate the value of speaking with other campers, especially if you are newer to outdoor adventuring.
The adventure community is incredible. Other campers may have firsthand experience with the area or be able to offer helpful tips or suggestions from their past experiences.
Post-Adventure Care and Recovery
Once the unexpected weather has passed, your work isn’t done. Now, it’s time to address the immediate needs of your pet.
Check Your Pet for Injuries or Distress
Thoroughly check your pet over for any signs of injury or discomfort they may have experienced. This includes checking for cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or any signs of overheating or hypothermia.
Watch for signs of stress or anxiety, such as excessive panting, restlessness, or withdrawal.
If they are at all bothered or distressed, find a way to give them a calm and comfortable environment to recollect themselves and recover.
My sweet girl Daviana was terrified of storms. Following any storm, I would have to take her into a quiet space, just her and I, holding, stroking her, and talking to her calmly until she calmed back down again.
The Importance of Drying and Cleaning
If your pet got wet, take time to dry them thoroughly. This is essential to prevent skin issues such as irritation or infection.
Pay extra close attention to their paws and their belly.
It’s also important to clean and dry any gear that was exposed to the elements to prevent mildew or damage.
After all, you spend good money on your gear – you want it to last!
Learn from Your Experiences
Every outdoor adventure with your pet, especially those involving unexpected weather, offers a valuable learning opportunity.
When all is said and done, take some time to reflect on the experience.
What went well? What could have been handled differently?
By identifying things that you could have done better, you can make changes for future trips. This includes updating your gear or emergency plan based on your experiences.
Final Thoughts – Facing Weather Challenges with Your Pet
Navigating the outdoors is a great way to share adventures and make memories with your pet, but there is an unpredictable side to consider.
Your ability to make the most of any situation hinges on two key principles: preparedness and adaptability.
By taking the time to research, pack strategically, and develop contingency plans with your pet’s safety and comfort in mind, you set yourself up for success, whatever Mother Nature may throw your way.
Do you have any stories about your experiences with unexpected weather while camping with our pets? I would love to hear them in the comments below.
Your insights could be invaluable to others. After all, we’re all here to learn and support each other in our shared love for pet-friendly adventures!
