Florida's public and private campgrounds are welcoming places, and many welcome our pets as well. When bringing a companion animal, though, additional rules apply, as does common sense. If your pet enjoys traveling with you, Florida has enough camping options available, along with dog parks and dog-friendly beaches, to make a great vacation for you and your pet.
Vaccinations
All dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies in Florida; tags are insufficient proof of vaccination. Remember to bring vet records with you or you and your pet may be turned away. You can save time by having our vet fax your pet's vaccination records to the campground where you'll be staying, provided there is an appropriate office to receive the fax. Always carry vaccination records with you regardless of whether they've been received ahead of time, as an emergency stop might require a change of plans.
Restraints
A loose pet can too easily become a lost pet, especially when traveling. Before you open your vehicle door, be sure to secure your pet with either a leash or a crate to prevent escape. Laws require dogs at Florida campgrounds to be restrained at all times either on a leash or in a crate or kennel. The leash can be no longer than 6 feet. This will keep your pet safe from an unfamiliar environment and keep you safe from any fines. Most campgrounds also require that pets not be left alone at any time, so plan to bring your animals with you or arrange for alternative care.
Prohibited Areas
In Florida's National Forests, dogs are not permitted in swimming/picnicking areas or day-use areas. State Parks have designated areas where pets are allowed, with other areas being off limits. More than 130 dog parks and dog-friendly beaches exist throughout Florida. While some allow camping, others are close enough to campgrounds with pet restrictions to allow some fun for your pet. Dog owners should note that certain breeds are prohibited from some Florida counties. In particular, Miami-Dade is off limits to pit bulls, and dogs may be confiscated.
Common Courtesy
While our pets tend to make less garbage than we do, there's no doubt that they do produce waste. Individual campgrounds have rules about waste removal, and that from our pets is no exception. Parks fully expect pet owners to pick up after their animals, wherever they may leave their droppings. It's better for the environment, and it helps campgrounds continue to welcome pet owners. Also, barking dogs can easily wear out their welcome, so give your pet something to do or otherwise be prepared to stop negative behavior, including digging.
Safety
Wherever you may camp with your pets, one of your jobs as owner is to keep them safe. Some things to keep in mind:
Always provide water and shade, and never, ever leave your pet in an enclosed vehicle, especially in the kind of heat common in Florida. It only takes minutes to cause brain damage.
Many wildlife areas allow pets at their campgrounds, but Florida's wildlife, native and non-native, can be dangerous, as well as protected.
Be prepared with contact information for veterinarians close to where you'll be staying. In a crisis, you can save precious time and possibly your pet's life.
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