“And the dog came too!†– as a nation of pet lovers, it’s only natural that those of us who enjoy camping in the great outdoors should want to take man’s best friend along as well. After all, who else could be a more fitting companion for long hikes o’er hill and dale, followed by relaxing round an evening campfire?
But what provision do we make for our canine campers? Are they shut out of the tent while we sleep cosily inside? Or do they squeeze in on a corner of the groundsheet, or keep us awake all night by hogging the sleeping bag?
Simply Hike (www.simplyhike.co.uk) have come up with the ideal solution to doggy dilemmas when camping or caravanning. The Whitstable-based online retailer of every quality hiking, trekking, camping or general outdoor survival item you could need has set up a special Pet Section – and cats are included too!
The Pet Camping range includes beds, loungers, tents, a carry bag and even pet sleeping bags. All are manufactured by Coleman who make camping equipment for humans too, which can also be bought from Simply Hike’s website.
The pet beds come in three styles – airbed, round and rectangular – and two sizes – small for pets up to 11Kg, and large for pets up to 29Kg. With a fleecy top and removable, washable covers, they’re practical as well as a treat for your dog or cat – what’s more, they can be used at home as well and, costing from just £17 (+P&P), they’re an affordable luxury.
Or perhaps a doggy-sized lounger is what your pet desires – how about a smart red one with washable cover and collapsible steel frame? In large or small, they retail from £23 +P&P.
For the ultimate in pet one-upmanship, nothing less than a mountaineer tent will do! How many dogs out there can say they have their own smart and stylish tent with weather-resistant fabric to repel rain, a waterproof floor and a strong frame to withstand gusty winds? With the cat version (also for small dogs) at £17 +P&P and the dog version (for medium to large pets) at a mere £23+P&P, their owners will be smiling too.
Can’t bear to leave your pooch outside, even in his own little tent? Then treat him to his very own sleeping bag – in cotton with a warm flannel lining and a waterproof base, he can snuggle up happily. Two sizes ensure a perfect fit and a price of £15 (+P&P) or £17 (+P&P) won’t stretch the purse strings either.
And, to complete the range, a pet carrier (£27+P&P) for the smaller pooch, cat, or even rabbit or bird (up to 11 Kg) rests their weary paws after along ramble, or just keeps them safely tucked up when travelling in car or caravan.
So, when planning your summer expedition, don’t forget to kit out Fido or Felix as well at www.simplyhike.co.uk when preparing your own packing list.
