Looking to enjoy some fun around the campfire with your dog? Camping with your dog can be an enjoyable experience if done so safely. Your dog can even sit around the campfire with you. Here are some bonfire safety tips to be aware of the next time you enjoy a fire with your dog.
Can Dogs Be Near a Campfire?
Healthy dogs can be near a campfire with certain precautions. Make sure that once the fire is burning, your dog is a safe distance away and is sitting upwind so flames and ashes can鈥檛 reach them. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and cannot access the fire pit.
Monitor your dog for signs of stress or agitation. If your dog doesn鈥檛 enjoy being near the fire, don鈥檛 force it! Many dogs prefer to sit farther away or to relax inside.
Some dogs, such as puppies and senior dogs, may be more easily irritated by fire and smoke and are best kept inside or far away from the fire.
Signs of Smoke-Inhalation in Dogs From Campfires
A good rule of thumb when sitting around a fire with your dog is to pay attention to how you feel. If the smoke is irritating you, it is most likely irritating your dog.
Call your veterinarian聽right away if your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Wheezing or loud breathing
- Fatigue or disorientation
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Reduced appetite
- Reduced thirst
- Red eyes, excessive tearing or blinking, or pawing at eyes. This could indicate cornea trauma.
Reasons Why Dogs Might Be Scared of Bonfires
Some dogs just don鈥檛 like fire or smoke, and that is perfectly natural! Here are a few additional reasons your dog may be fearful around a bonfire:
- Heat. Have you ever stood a little too close to the fire? Dogs can experience that uncomfortable sensation as well. Many dogs get overheated or uncomfortable if they鈥檙e too close to the fire.
- They descended from wolves. Wolves are naturally afraid of fire because it鈥檚 associated with destroying their habitat.
- Fires are unpredictable. The crackling sounds can be unsettling for dogs, especially those who are afraid of loud noises like fireworks and thunder.
Bonfire Safety Tips
Make sure your dog stays away from the fire pit even long after the fire has gone out. Embers can remain below piles of soot that your dog may try to roll in. By keeping your dog away from the fire, you can avoid them getting burnt, stepping in glass, or getting covered in soot.
Microchip your dog before camping and make sure their ID information is up-to-date. It鈥檚 always best to be prepared in case your dog makes an accidental escape. And remember, always talk to your veterinarian if your dog鈥檚 behavior seems off.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.