Camping and hiking with your dog in the California deserts

Camping in the desert with your dog requires extra precautions. Most importantly, be sure your dog stays hydrated during your stay. That means offering your pup fresh water frequently, especially in the heat.

When walking your dog in the desert, avoid midday when the head can be intense. You can protect your dog’s paws from hot sand and rocky terrain with booties. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash to prevent encounters with rattlesnakes or other wildlife. Remember to stay on marked paths, keep your dog close, and exercise extra caution around damaging cactus needles.

When setting up your tent, be sure it is securely staked down to prevent it from blowing away in strong desert winds. Always keep the tent zipped, which stops your dog from wandering out or encountering wildlife. Provide plenty of shade and rest areas inside the tent to help your pup stay cool, too. With proper preparation, you and your dog can safely enjoy camping in the desert.

A word of note about hiking with your dog at Joshua Tree National Park: In addition to keeping dogs on leash, dogs must remain within 100 feet of roads, parking areas and campgrounds. You can read more on the National Park Service (.gov) website.