Take Your Dog to Camp - Page 2

Some owners are surprised at what their dog likes to do.  A Golden Retriever might find that she likes to chase a lure around a field, the way greyhounds do on a track.  A Pug might take delight in herding sheep.  A mixed breed who hates getting bathed may love swimming in a lake -- especially after he has a swim lesson or two.  A Parson Russell Terrier may discover a talent for skateboarding.

Not into sports?  Don't worry.  "Dogs love camp even if they are couch potatoes," says Kohlmoos.  "We have couches!"

Meanwhile, both people and pooches are well taken care of.  Dogs and humans stay together in single, double or triple rooms.  Humans enjoy three home-cooked meals a day, while dogs can eat the same food they're accustomed to getting at home.

Not every dog is suited for camp, though.   For example, the canine claustrophobe would have some difficulty.  "A dog needs to be able to be confined in a crate or exercise pen, because the dog can't be allowed to run around the room unconfined when left alone," says Richter. 

Kohlmoos says that dogs with health issues need to be okayed by their veterinarians before coming to camp, and dogs with serious aggression issues shouldn't come at all. "A week is simply not long enough to solve aggression problems, nor would it be fair to those who have friendly dogs and want a peaceful time."

But for the dog and person who spend a week at dog camp, the benefits can go way beyond mere relaxation or trying a new sport.  "You become so much more bonded to your dog," says Richter.  "This personal time you spend with your dog increases the closeness between you."

If you think dog camp sounds fun, learn more by logging onto these websites:

• Camp Gone to the Dogs (www.campgonetothedogs.com):  rates between $950 and $1,400 for one week 
• Camp Winnaribbun (www.campw.com):  $1,100 for one week
• The Dog's Camp:  www.thedogscamp.com:  $995 for one week Camp Unleashed (www.campunleashed.com):  $649 to $799 for 4 nights
• Camp Dogwood (www.campdogwood.com):  $425 to $755 for 3 nights
• Dog Days of Wisconsin (www.dogcamp.com):  $440 to $525 for 3 nights

Susan McCullough and her Golden Retriever, Allie, have had a blast whenever they've gone to dog camp.

For more on vacationing with your pet, check out the Pet Travel Section.