From the AAHA Blog | By Jen Reeder

Camping with my husband and our dog is one of my very favorite things to do. Nothing recharges my batteries more than spending time in the great outdoors. Sometimes we pitch our tent next to a river or alpine lake, nestled in pine trees. Other times we camp in the desert of the Southwest, with red rocks as far as the eye can see. But all of the trips typically involve gorgeous scenery, fresh air, food cooked by a fire, conversation by starlight, and dog snuggles in the tent.

Rio, our Labrador retriever mix, seems to love camping as much as we do. He wags his tail as he trots up a hiking trail or as he bounds out of a lake after a refreshing swim. If we stay in an established campground, he greets other campers as we take a leashed walk to the bathroom—he’s always happy to meet new friends. There are tantalizing scents everywhere. It’s dog heaven.

Camping season is upon us, and June is National Camping Month. It’s a terrific time to try camping with your dog, or to resolve to do it more often. To make sure you and your dog have as much fun as you possibly can, it’s important to follow the Scout Motto: “Be prepared.”