Q -Which provincial parks in Northern Ontario are conducive to camping with dogs?
A- There are a number of parks that allow pets, some have designated off leash exercise areas. Chutes Provincial Park in Massey, Ontario, has a fenced in area where your dog can run off leash and practice their fetching skills. Halfway Lake Provincial Park has large campsites with significant space between sites. This is an excellent option for dogs. Halfway Lake also has wonderful hiking trails and a separate beach area for your pooch.
Q-I love to camp at provincial and private parks with my dog. At home Chase is never tethered, he has a fenced in yard to roam and play. While we camp we have to keep him tied up. How can I make this less stressful for him?
A- Dogs have a fight or flight instinct. When they are tethered their flight response is restricted. When the fight response kicks in any dog will bark more, and run to the end of their lead which can cause injury. Following the rules in a park by keeping your dog tied makes you a responsible pet owner. Make sure to expel some of Chase’s energy by exercising him before you tie him and relax at your site. A helpful tool for campsites is a portable exercise pen with a lid. The pen will give Chase a safe enclosure, and the lid will allow for a shaded area for him to relax in when it gets hot outside. Never leave your dog unattended at your site, it is against the rules and will increase the likelihood of stress barking. Proper training and leadership will help Chase learn to relax and respond to you if he is distracted or stressed out.