I had an interesting discussion with a campground manager yesterday. She was visibly upset as I walked into the office. When I asked what was wrong, Mary replied, “There are so many problems with these new dog rules and fees!”
Dog fees in campgrounds
Mary was referring to the newly instituted $20 fee for each dog that an RVer brings along with them to camp. Owners of the campground recently decided to add the extra fee, and Mary is the unfortunate one who must enforce it. We no longer have a dog, so I wasn’t aware that more and more campgrounds are charging campers an extra fee for their dog to stay. Turns out, there are several problems with dog fees.
Lost revenue
Mary explained, “Most families consider their dog as part of the family. We’re losing revenue from folks who’ve stayed with us for years! They don’t want to pay the extra. Instead, they’re choosing parks that do not charge extra for their dogs.”
I wondered aloud why the dog fee was added. “Because they can!” Mary shook her head and frowned. “As if there aren’t already enough add-on fees,” she complained. “With so many more RVers in the past few years, the demand for camping sites has exploded. Many people are just happy to find a vacant spot—so they’ll pay the extra fee. I feel sorry for folks who can’t afford it or reject the idea on principle.”
What about boarding the dog at home? I was surprised to find that dog boarding costs in our area of the Midwest average $30-$50 per day or $150 for a week. I imagine that campgrounds consider their dog fee quite reasonable in comparison to boarding. However, not every dog owner feels comfortable boarding their pet.
Entitlement
Mary also told me about RVers who, having paid the extra $20 fee, refuse to pick up after their dog. “They mistakenly think the $20 dog fee pays for camp personnel to clean up after their dog. We’ve never had so much dog doo all over the park!” Mary huffed. “It’s disgusting!”
Problematic rules
Service dogs
The campground does not charge the $20 dog fee for service dogs. Still, Mary faces a conundrum: There are service dogs trained to help folks with visible physical disabilities. There are also service dogs trained to assist people with diabetes or seizure disorders. These and other conditions are not always visually evident. So how is a campground manager to distinguish between the RVer who has an actual health concern (needs a service dog), from someone just trying to avoid spending the extra fee for bringing their dog to the campground?
Making things even more confusing: There is no mandatory registration or certification process for service dogs. According to the ADA, any required registration or certification would be considered discrimination. Service dogs don’t have to have any kind of visible identification that labels them as “service animals” either.
Then there are folks who rely on their dogs for “emotional support.” Again, there is no certification or identification required for these animals, even though the ADA makes a clear distinction between “comfort animals” and “service animals.” I was beginning to understand Mary’s frustration.
Breed restrictions
“I had an RVer complain about his neighbor’s dog, a pit bull, this morning too!” Mary fussed. “If a camper says his dog isn’t a pit bull, what am I supposed to do? Demand DNA?” I could tell Mary was really upset.
I’ve seen dog breed restrictions at several RV parks. I understand that park owners want folks to be safe, but how is a campground host supposed to distinguish between breeds? Is a pit bull mixed breed acceptable? And what happens if an RVer “fibs” about his dog’s true heritage while making the reservation? Mary’s day may get much worse if she’s the one who has to tell the pit bull’s owner to leave the park!
How about you? How do you feel about campgrounds charging an extra fee for dogs? Have you ever paid to bring your dog camping? Let us know how you feel in the comments.
First, I always pick up after my dog. The leash has a bag holder on it, I just slap in a roll. Having said that, however, I can sympathize with owners who are now faced with a “dog fee”. (Not clear if that’s per-stay or per-day.) If it’s an add-on, what else could it be for, if not because staff has to be paid extra to pick up dog poo? I sympathize with campground staff, but THEY need to speak up to the owners, too. You can only speak with your actions in many cases which, hard to say, might be threatening to quit. It’s a horrible scenario for campers and staff, while owners proclaim to the board how “profits are up this quarter”.
I have a service dog, a long haired german shepherd, when I make the reservation I always let them know. This service dog was trained to be vocal and wake me up when i stop breathing, so i usually get complaints in the morning. I/my wife always clean up after he is done with his business. I also do not always put his vest on it tends to pull his hair and make him cry out while walking. So i understand where the desk clerk was upset.
Just booked a reservation with a dog fee. Can’t believe I agreed to the fee, but really want to stay at their park. Fee is supposed to be refunded if our dog causes no issues. We will see how it goes.
Report back on refund issue. The disbelievers in me says you will never see your money.
Any park that charges a fee for my small multipoo absolutely does not get my business. He is a house dog and only goes out to do his business. He does not use the pool, the rest rooms, the picnic table, any of the camping facility. Are they also going to charge for cats ?, parrots ?, gold fish ?. How about a fee for each book or magazine you read. Maybe a fee to have a camp fire each night. Maybe a fee to see the stars at night. A fee for a dog is simply gouging, greed !
If you are dumb enough to pay it, they smart enough to take your money.
Exactly!
I don’t doubt the present administration is going to outlaw campfires. Unless we get smart enough to stop them.
When my husband and I decided that we wanted to travel more, we debated buying an RV vs staying in a hotel. When you factor in all the costs, staying in an RV is slightly less expensive. Not enough to make a difference though.
The tipping point is that you bring home with you. Home includes the pets. I do understand why campgrounds charge more for extra people and visitors that use the amenities. But what amenities are dogs using? They are mostly in the rig. I’ve never not cleaned up after my dog but I would sure think about it if I was being charged $20 a day for him.
Most extra charges are nothing but corporate greed. So many campgrounds are being bought out. Stock holders demanding more returns.
Sorry to be on the “opposite” side of this discussion. I love dogs, but dogs are like children and if not properly “parented,” can be problematic. I do agree that dog fees are unjust, but some dog parents have the attitude that “my dog is the best dog in the entire world.” So perhaps the solution would be to drop dog fees and instead increase no-refund evictions when a dog parent breaks the park rules, such as being caught not picking up poop, allowing their dog to bark (also happens when mommy and daddy leave Fido alone in the RV) or allowing dogs to be aggressive. And deciding not to clean up after a dog because you have been charged a fee is childish and inappropriate; it punishes other campers who may step in it and ruin their shoes. It doesn’t get revenge on the park owners. In fact, it may bring so many complaints that the park ultimately will not allow dogs.
Well, even here at RVTravel, we had a few horrible comments when we sent our pup’s picture to share. She’s an American Staffordshire Terrier. She is a cousin to the breed of pitbull. It’s not the individual dog that is the problem. It is human! Some Humans are just so ignorant and scared & it shows. Not educated about breeds of dogs is the main problem. Another is how any dog is raised, Loved and behavior. RVers with dogs, Service Dog are NOT going to place their loving Furbaby in a situation that would be harmful. Remember Service Dogs ARE NOT TO BE APPROACHED, touched or Distracted from the JOB. Ignorance is a disaster. Some Service Dogs are able to take a break and have fun just like any other dog. So what about a Retired Law Enforcement or Military Dogs? Are Humans aware of them and their training with the vast amount of breeds? Don’t JUDGE a breed. If you’re uncomfortable Stay Away. Keep to the boundaries and stay peaceful. Do everyone this favor.
X2
We have yet to encounter additional campground fees for our dog. However, given no other choice, we would pay and stay. Having camped with horses for years I have seen these campgrounds literally overrun with dogs. Some campers bringing 3-4 dogs.
If one is going to pay extra for having a dog, I would not go there. The fee is just more money, I would wager, unless the campground is picking up, and I pick up after my own. I would never leave my dog with anyone whomsoever. My dog doesn’t bark and isn’t a nuisance; and if he did bark, a fee isn’t going to stop that. The rejecting of certain dogs, I have mixed feelings. If I had a dog who did not behave, it would not be because of the breed. People make a mean dog, either through poor breeding and/or lack of training, whether or not it’s a pit bull or which kind. Barking or attacking usually takes place due to lack of training. People who want to pet my dog are a nuisance because they want to ruin his training, and I don’t allow it. If another dog is allowed to jump on mine, a $20 fee isn’t going to save him. My big stick to keep them back is what helps. If one can sue a campground because a dog attacked, I could understand the fee for extra insurance.
In all due respect, I really do not believe that people who approach you and your dog and want to pet it, are doing it “because they want to ruin his training”. More likely they just like dogs.
I would stay far away from you and your dog. How would petting your dog ruin his “training?” Sounds to me as if your pup is one for people to avoid at all costs.
I love my campground that I go to and Lancaster county Pennsylvania I’ve discovered hip camp and using it for over a year and found that to be more pleasant than campgrounds due to no ridiculous fees no overcrowding and just friendly host
Punctuation might help us understand what you just typed…
In all our years camping/RVing with our dogs we never had to pay extra. Sadly we lost our “Gracie” last September and now travel with no pets. I can see why a campground or RV Park might want to charge for dogs. As a workkamper I’m seeing more people not cleaning up after their dogs (as was mentioned in the article). They seem to think it’s okay to let them loose outside to do their business which is left for us, the staff, to clean up. Maybe campgrounds/RV Parks should call it a cleaning fee which everyone pays up front and if your site is found to be clean when you leave the fee is refunded (just a thought).
That will only push some folks to let their dogs poop on other’s sites, the park perimeter or in common areas….all of which would still leave their site clean and justify their expected refund.
If a campground is going to charge a fee for dogs then there should be an obvious benefit to the client for that fee. The amenities advertised must include facilites and amenities proportional to the fee being charged. For $20 dollars I would expect:
1. An enclosed dog run with running water, benches, waste bags and trash cans.
2. Waste bags and trashcans throughout the campground.
3. Larger greenspace at sites that are designated for clients with dogs.
4. Allow temporary fencing to be deployed at these designated sites.
5. A list of local veterinaries, 24 hour emergency clinics, dog friendly restaurants and shops, and dog parks should be provided.
6. A dog washing station would be a very nice amenity.
If the campground had nice features for the dogs and the fee is not too high I wouldn’t mind. One campground charges 400$ for dogs during music festivals to discourage dogs. I think they should just man up and say no dogs during festivals.
Ridiculous! Ridiculous for people who abide by rules. The most a dog costs them is “water to drink.” People who are not respectful are impacting everyone else with a dog.
We have dobes and they are typically the best trained animals in any park we go to and we ALWAYS clean up after them.
Unfortunately they have an undeserved reputation!!!!
Many times when out walking we have people cross to the other side of the road or just turn around and walk the other way.
The only thing these dogs would do to you is lick your face when we meet outside.
They don’t bark when we go out or respond to yapping of other smaller dogs but due to breed they have been banned from many parks.
If I now have to pay a fee per night for them , that park will never see my money again and although I am not social media savvy I will learn and let everyone with dogs know to avoid the place.
Agree! I’ve had many of the power breeds, German shepherd, rotties, dobies, while competing in obedience show. The worst any of them would do is lick you to death, but people see the “breed”, not the “dog.” Breed specific regulations are a joke, n my opinion, discriminatory. I was sitting at a friend’s house once, n their crazy Boston attacked me. Because he’s crazy I was ready for it. Most responsible owners of those breeds have well trained dogs. Unfortunately, it’s the irresponsible owners that’s giving us all a bad name. I don’t go to those parks.
Those parks wanting to charge a fee will not get my money. I always pick up after my dogs but the angel on one side of my head is saying don’t do it if they are charging a fee and I was forced to pay. Why else would they be charging a fee…I ask
I can see a security deposit if catching violators. People who let their dogs run off leash into other campsites or terrorizing people walking by.
Our dogs are better behaved than some campground kids we’ve encountered. Why not institute a kiddie fee. How about a loud music fee? Maybe a dirty site fee for left behind trash? A dirty/unkept vehicle fee? There are campground issues needing far more attention than someone’s dog.
Some campgrounds are now charging per child as an extra.
I’ve been hit with surprise fees for dogs more than once. Typically not advertised at registration online or via phone. Once you’ve driven for hours and finally check in, BAM, then you find out there is a per pet fee per day. That does surely put a dent in your fun budget if staying for a week or so.
Any campground that charges a fee for a dog is avoided at all costs! I’d rather spend the night in a Walmart parking lot then pay a fee for my child (I mean dog)! Camping is a family affair and places that charge extra for dogs or extra children are just greedy campground owners! Mostly Corporations both large and small saw the $$$ with the report of large RV sales and jumped on the ban wagon buying up all kinds of campgrounds and then charging higher prices and tacking on fees! They are ruining camping.
When I can rent a Days Inn in most places at $60/night why would I pay that for a tiny piece of land where I park my own RV or set up my own tent??? Yet there are people who pay these fees …. ultimately redefining normal camping into something else….
Parks charging for a dog?
I agree with the person that said maybe a deposit is agreeable if the park enforces the rules for dogs (pick after the dog, 6 foot leash, etc) but most dont enforce them.
Are they going to charge for children?
I’ve hosted state parks with no rules enforced but posted rules.
Break the rules lose your deposit and pay your deposit again.
We are staying at a park where there are signs stating
“ pick after your dog”
“ dogs must be leashed and no longer than 6 feet”
“ no loose dogs”
“ no unattended dogs left outside your rig” etc, etc.
The owner has 2 dogs that run around loose
So guess it is a Do as I say not as I do.
We wont be back.
Sad situation.
Is it $20 per dog per stay or per day?
$20 per stay is reasonable but stupid but reasonable I guess if the dog run is clean and rules are followed by all.
Still stupid though!
Some parks are now charging for your kids. Reservation is for 2 adults. Children are extra. Fee per child per day. I will not stay at such a campground. My kids are my family.
Yes, and others allow 2 adults and 2 kids, but if you have one child that is an adult traveling with you, you pay extra.
Why be so greedy? It should be a set number of people and not their age that matters.
Greediness and entitlement are on the rise, neither are good, and make our travel experiences less enjoyable.
I do agree that registered service dogs should be exempt. The problem I see is people will start saying that their dog is a service dog needed for emotional support. Those are NOT service dogs and probably the biggest offenders. These are the ones you see in stores riding in the shopping cart. It really ticks me off when I see one being carted around in a grocery store or taken into a restaurant.
BTW, if you see a person with a service dog, always ask if you can pet it. They are specially trained and may not appreciate being approached.
As far as the dog not wearing the labeled harness, there are leashes available stating the fact.
Many of the reservations I’ve made asked about pets. Never had to pay an additional fee, but if it was a surprise, I’d be tempted to leave the plastic bags in the RV, too.
Agree
Unfortunately a fee wont help. It wont change the irresponsible pet owners. We wintered at a park in Florida that only allowed the pets to be on the ground at your site or at the dog park. It was great! There was no urine smell by every tree or post you walked by, and no chance of waste that was not picked up.
Emotional support animals are a joke, most people just use it as an excuse to bring their animals with them wherever they go. Glad the airlines finally started cracking down! I just don’t understand why some people have to have their dogs with them every second of the day. What are they missing in their lives? I have owned dogs, but they were treated as pets, not as an equal to a family member.
Tell the PTSD plagued combat veteran that his/her trained emotional support dog is a joke.
Are there “fake” support dogs? Yes. But don’t lump all emotional support dogs into one group.
I believe those are considered service dogs and have been extensively trained to that level.
When it comes to discussions about dogs relieving themselves, it’s always about their cleaning up their poop. I never see anything about their pi*s. The dog can pi*s right at the campsite and it sinks in disappearing, then we all play on top of that soiled earth. I think that is what is most objectionable. At least poop is visible to be picked up.
I’m a full time camper with a dog and I’m happy to report that out of my 25-40 campground stays a year I’ve yet to see a campground that charges this fee. But rest assured If I ever do I will avoid it.
Lots folks picking up after their dogs here. That’s great. Thank you. No mention of people controlling their dog’s barking. There is too much dog barking in many of the campgrounds I’ve visited. Even a quick bark as someone walks by is more than I want to hear. Regular barkers and continuous barkers are a serious problem and are too frequent. If a dog fee discourages dogs and their associated barking I’m for it.
I recently paid $5 per night at Davis Camp Park in Bullhead City, AZ. For what! The dog park was full of poop. A fulltime camper let her German Shepherd stay outside all day while she worked in the camp office. The dog barked and looked like it wanted to attack anyone that walked by. The dog bit a camper on the leg a year ago, and the dog was still there. Was that dog’s owner paying $5 per night! I doubt it since she worked in the office. I’m a responsible dog owner. I carry poop bags in my pocket at all times. Maybe for $5 I should let the campground maintenance people pick up my dog’s poop!
Oh, I found out about the fee at check-in.
We bought an RV so that we could see the country with our dog. She was even named Arvie (name sounds like RV). She has been raised to be quiet and well behaved. I was surprised anyone in a RV would even consider boarding their dog. The only place we paid a pet fee was at Disney World. Fort Wilderness is so expensive the extra $5 a day was a small percentage of our total cost. I still thought it was unfair.
Service dogs and emotional support dogs are a joke just like handicap parking license plates or placards. Anyone can claim their dog is a service dog. Recently I was standing in line at a hotel to get into a venue. A lady in line was holding her dog in her arms. The dog had on a “service dog vest”. A person in line asked the lady what service the dog provided. The lady said the dog let’s her know when her doorbell rings. Really! Then there are the people that take their “service dog” into Walmart in the grocery section with their dog in the shopping cart. Does the dog pick out the groceries!
I volunteered for the Las Vegas PD. One of my jobs was writing handicap parking tickets. Many times, I saw “handicapped” people get out of their cars and briskly walk into a store or shopping mall. No problem getting out of their lifted truck and spending the day shopping, yet they were handicapped.
Society lacks person responsibility, and it’s getting worse.
Service dogs are NOT a joke. They serve real needs for real disabilities. It is the fake service dogs whose owners make it a problem for everyone. They just want their dog with them no matter what. Many are not trained with even basic manners. Let’s crack down on fakes, not lump the fakes with the true service dogs who get hundreds of hours of training at quite a cost before being assigned to their disabled humans.
Unfortunately you don’t know what disability the person has. Some disabilities you can’t see by looking.
Woah! Handicap placards are a joke? Now you are defaming my daughter, and it is none of your business what her problem may be. There are people with hearing deficits that may have a dog that comes to them to let them know someone is at the door. I have dealt with that very issue when in housing management. It is being understanding as well as being in the ADA regulations.
I had to get a letter from my counselor stating my dog is an emotional support dog, I do need her with me due to issues I will not discuss. I wholeheartedly feel people who get their certs online should be fined or something, they usually do not have a real need.
Handicap placards – I have one, too. You don’t know by looking at me (usually) all of my medical conditions that require me to have one. That said, if I am not in so much pain, I will park In a regular spot.
Consider yourself FORTUNATE you don’t have what is necessary to truly qualify for these benefits. Personally, I HATE that I need to use them, but know I must. Give us the benefit of the doubt,/ unless you know for sure that you are right.
Right on Bill. WAY TOO many barking dogs and getting worse.
I understand the campground wanting to control animals, but…I feel the campgrounds are beginning to “nickel and dime” us. First an extra fee for dogs, now a fee for parking an extra vehicle. (So much for towing behind a Class A.) What is next? An extra fee for using the trash cans? Shower? Restroom? Don’t be greedy, please.
We have a 6lb Maltese that goes just about every where we do, he is completely house broken and will hold it for hours until he is taken out. We travel in our car, stay in motels and pay extra for him. I see no reason why someone is offended by being charged extra for their pet, as most people who would complain are the same ones who don’t pick up after their pets, tie there dog outside and go off sightseeing all day, or lock them inside all day. If you’re going to be a pet owner own up to it and be responsible. Yes there are many people who consider their pet a part of the family and treat it so. Then there are those who are the opposite who only have it because of their child who never takes care of it anyway, they feed it, take it out etc. and the child may play with the dog 30-40 minutes each day. Get rid of it, the child will get over it inside 2 days anyway.
Some campgrounds have pet sitters available. A responsible pet owner will hire one to take their dogs out if they want to sight see or put them in daycare. I’m visiting DC this summer and the fee will be at least $60 a day for a pet sitter. I will pay that but not extra for having a dog in a camp ground. Its illegal to tether a dog in most places. As it should be.
We have a 90 lb. black lab mix and try to be considerate of her. If we’re going somewhere where we know we’ll be away from camp for awhile ( like a music festival) we make arrangements beforehand to board her. It’s a win-win all around. My pup gets to play with others and we can relax and enjoy ourselves without worrying about whether she’s trashing the rig or barking. One pet resort in New Orleans even “fetches” the dogs and returns them! Of course, in some places we may still be required to pay a pet fee ( although we haven’t come up against that yet), but maybe pet fees are charged because the dogs are bored, act out, and are a nuisance to other campers in general.
I can tell you the practice of prohibiting certain breeds is ludicrous. Some of the sweetest dogs out there are Pit Bulls and Rottweilers. The worst dog bite I have ever had was from a Cocker Spaniel that I pulled off a child. The dog was vicious and obviously not trained.
Agree totally, I fear getting bitten by small dogs much more than pitties. Every one that I’ve met just want to smother you in kisses
Uhhh yeah. Why do I read stories about pitbulls mauling children and adult to death, more than any other breed?
most “stories” of Pitbull attacks are just that… “stories”. people misidentify the breed of dog in those because they want the mainstream to be afraid of the dog. not every dog that attacks is a Pitbull.
I am willing to bet that the majority of the problems with the canines is due to the owners. Good luck resolving that issue.
Campground beginning to sound akin to airlines, charging for anything they can think of.
I have not, and will not pay extra for our dog. We are fulltimers, so leaving our dog elsewhere is not an option. I can understand Mary’s frustration and I agree, the cost is already becoming prohibitive.
I would not stay in a park that charged an extra fee for my dog. That said I can almost understand because of the rude people who do not clean up after their pets.
We have paid up to $5/dog. We have 2 large mixed breed dogs. With fees what they are to start with, any more than that & we look for somewhere else in the area. Neither has ever been boarded. Yes, that limits where we can stay & what we can do, but we take them with us on any overnight or longer trips, as well as most day trips.
A pet fee can be just a money grab depending upon the situation or a needed charge due to additional work required for cleanup after the guest and pet stay.
At a campground the animal is going to poop and pee without regard to whether a fee is charged or not. The difference here is the pet owner. I paid a pet fee so let the campground clean up after my pet is a reasonable assumption by the pet owner in today’s it’s all about me world. Screw em! That guest may not have that “Attitude” when there is not pet fee as they are and have been a responsible pet owner.
A VRBO home rental is quite different. Many VRBO rentals that are pet friendly do charge a pet fee and for good reason. The clean up of the property inside and out after their guests and pets leave. Pet hair, pet smell and pet damage to the home contents can be a real issue and the cleanup of pet hair can add a lot of work for the cleaning crew.
Money grab or needed charge?
You decide!
Home rentals are very different as the next guest may have animal allergies, so additional careful cleaning and time is needed. Nothing like that in a campground.
You really think they do additional cleaning? Lol.
Yep, I do.
I paid a fee for my dogs it was ok . Now I’m here permanently and don’t have too . I have seen many dogs in this park with no leashes because they think their dog won’t attack. If it comes after my little dogs It will be pepper sprayed . I have already had a dog attack my little dog she was on my lot with a leash on and the man cut through my neighbors lot and the dog attacked my little dog my husband dove in and he was bitten the worse . The guy dog was on a leash but it didn’t matter . We have several dogs not on leashes one in particular is a pit and this man is arrogant . I have told him several times and he just doesn’t care so I told him it comes after my dogs it will be pepper sprayed . Some people think they are above the rules of the park . Think that’s why parks have rules where there can be no aggressive dogs . She’s the owner of the park she can have rules and people sign the contract then they have to follow them or don’t camp there . If they don’t then give them warning.
Some people don’t understand that their dog, loose or leashed, may like other dogs but that doesn’t mean that mine does.
We have a 9 year old Golden Retriever that has been travelling with us her whole life. She is certain that every person loves her, and she won’t give another dog a second look. She never barks and would easily walk without a leash if it was allowed. We are paying the price for the entitled people that have no idea of the responsibility of dog ownership.
Well said.
The dog fees at campgrounds really frost me. Considering that the whole reason I RV is because of my pets. It is easier than lousy motel/hotels. Other than than some owners not picking up after their dogs, I don’t see why camp owners insist on the expensive fees. I do avoid the CGs that charge unless I am really stuck for a spot.
I travel with 4 large dogs with a bully breed heritage. I won’t pay extra for dogs and I won’t stay anywhere with breed restrictions. In fact, I will leave a bad review on any campground with breed restrictions. I will also call and tell them why I won’t stay with them. Hotels used to be the same way until it hit their bottom line. Now some have bully breeds as ambassadors! I also think a limit is discriminatory. If they are well behaved, why say I can only have 2 or 3? Many people who show dogs travel with multiple dogs. I’m a considerate owner. I have even picked up after previous dog park people especially at fueling station dog parks. People are individuals and dogs are individuals. A park that discriminates against dogs will also discriminate against other things. It is just ignorance. The insurance ploy is just that! Choose a company that does not discriminate! They do exist. Off my soap box!
Keep your dog on *your* site, keep them on a 6′ leash and keep them shut up.
I guess we could say the same thing to you, stay on your own site, don’t take hikes and don’t talk, have campfires that bother others, no lights , etc. it all boils down to being a responsible person.
Thanks!
Well said. Thank you Joe.
Recently, we checked into an RV camp in Idaho and when asked if we had any pets, my wife replied that we had an “indoor” fat kitty cat only. We were promptly charged an extra five dollars. Inquiring further about this fee, we were told that even if we had a lizard, we would be charged this “pet fee”. Last time we’ll ever stay at that campground…
I have a friend that own a beautiful German Shepherd. He’d love you to death before barking. His problem is hell knock you over giving you kisses unless you’re prepared.
Regarding “SERVICE DOGS” a trained service dog will not bark at or attack other dogs. You’ll see them in their little vests that say service dog. If they bark or attack in ANY way, forget it they are NOT service dogs.
You’re right about a service dog not attacking, however they do bark on occasion in fact I’ve seen some bark quite a lot and it was a certified service animal, and most people’s service dogs don’t wear a vest as some people don’t like others knowing they need a service dog.
Several times during our travels we have stayed in parks that have a fee for dogs. It was minimal, $5 per dog, but we were told that it covers furnishing of bags, areas dedicated to dogs and generally keeping up the grounds. It still didn’t excuse us from picking up after him. I’ve stayed at many parks that charge extra for guests or children. At least I didn’t have to pick up after them. One thing all dog owners need to understand is that it is their responsibility to take care of their dogs. If that were followed there would be no need for extra fees. Unfortunately many pet owners, and extends to cat owners, they don’t take responsibility. Cats are allowed to roam the park at will. They poop and they pee. Who takes care of that? Probably us dog owners that do take responsibility.
We won’t stay if there is a separate fee per dog.
If the campground is going to have such a fee, then they should have someone going around picking up. But of course they do not because it’s a fee grab, not a service to anyone.
Dog owners that don’t follow the rules really bother us. We always pick up and unless on a walk, we keep ours inside. I personally hate yapping dogs, so ours are trained early on not to bark excessively.
Last year at a regional park, my wife and I were walking our dogs and upon passing a “Pick up after your dog” sign, that included a roll of free doggie bags and a waste can, we noticed there was a massive pile left right at the bottom of the sign pole! Stupid arrogant dog owners.
Adding a fee just because they CAN! And breed restrictions are crazy. Our pit bull was the sweetest, most gentle, intelligent dog. Little dogs can be vicious. Yet we found parks that would not let us stay.
So by saying “little dogs can be vicious” you’re being as bad as the people who say “pits are vicious”. Smh
I have a husky/lab mix which is super gentle, when i walk him, its the people with small terriers and such that want to attack
Again, that’s as prejudiced as saying huskies or pits are vicious (I had a husky bite my kid). It’s all about the owner. Be kind don’t judge, they’re always exceptions to the rule!
Little dogs can in fact be vicious, difference being 80lbs of bite force (Chihuahua) vs 242lbs from a pit bull. In 2020, 15% of fatal dog attacks involved multi-victim attacks. 100% were carried out by Pit Bulls, of which 86% (6 of 7) were inflicted by a single or pair of family Pit Bulls attacking multiple household members. (Source:https://petkeen.com/pit-bull-bite-force/)
Published, peer-reviewed studies in authoritative journals of psychology and forensic science establish that pit bull owners as a whole — statistically — are more likely to be socially deviant, engage in crimes involving children, domestic violence, alcohol abuse, and violent crimes against other persons.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17065657; http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1556-4029.2009.01001.x/abstract
Thus, the ban against pit bulls is actually a form of discrimination. Since it’s illegal to openly discriminate against people, you put restrictions on their pets. If the people can’t control themselves, it’s highly unlikely that they will control their pets.
Many dog owners are like myself & my husband, responsible. This is just another example how the many get punished for the acts of the few.
I can see charging a fee that gets refunded if your site is clean, but I fail to see why charge a fee to everyone just because they travel with a pet. That is unacceptable! The whole point behind camping is taking your pet, so you don’t have to leave them at a kennel or with family at home.
I haven’t experienced a “pet fee” yet, but if they don’t refund that charge after we check out, then I won’t stay. We are diligent about picking up after our dog and all our dogs have been well trained. Barking is one thing, dogs bark, barking endlessly is something different.
Well said and I agree 100%…
We travelled with our retired police dog, Hope. She was fun, and a challenge, at times. Ever ready for a walk. But dog friendly State & National parks are few and far between. We now travel with our rabbit, Rabito and our amazon parrot Happy.
We do not advertise that we have either with us at RV parks.
It’s a campgrounds right to charge whatever they wish, but it’s also my right not to stay at their sites…Which is what I’ll choose to do.
We have 3 small dogs & we pick up after them & follow all the rules. I won’t pay a fee & I think putting a breed rule up is silly. I know lots of big dogs that are huge babys. All kinds of breeds Pits included. I know a Rottie that is the biggest teddy bear. I love going camping & getting to see all the breeds & their families. It’s one of my favorite parts of camping. If some do then let the ppl that want pet free go there.. Just my opinion.
I don’t think they should charge 20.00 per dog .your gonna get doggie doo because your right the people are going to feel that’s part of the fees that are paid . If I am charged for my dogs that I take I will choose another campground
They should of said nothing and just up camp fees the twenty, and not mentioned the dogs at all.after all , everything is going up.
Why would I pay extra for someone’s dirt causing dog?
I have paid extra for my dogs. I don’t think it’s right because the camping fee is usually for 4 people. There are only 2 of us. So it seems to me that they should be included in that.
Nothing but greed and typical stereotyping. it’s getting bad everywhere with rules and fees and I am a full time RVer and i am not a pet owner and I love dogs. it shouldn’t be this way at all
Looking forward to all these empty RV spots this summer. Thanks.
Hahaha!
I’ve paid pet fees at motels, so what is the big deal at RV parks? If they have dog runs, it costs to build and maintain. Twenty bucks does seem to be a bit greedy however.
We mainly got an RV so we could travel with our dogs since most motels won’t allow them. I haven’t seen a dog fee out here in Arizona but if that starts I’ll avoid any campgrounds with one. And I thought charging extra for picnic tables was bad!
I’m not interested in paying extra for my dogs. Thats why I only camp at state parks. Everyone seems to want to rob you anymore.
We travel with 2 mixed breeds. We keep them on leashes, clean up after them and don’t leave them barking outside or in the rv. Our dogs are family and I won’t stay anywhere that charges me more money because I have dogs. Next thing you know they will start charging per child you have.
I wouldn’t go to a site that made me pay for my dogs. I clean up after them and they are quiet most of the time. Not all dog owners are responsible. I just wouldn’t pay.
Key is “most of the time”.
Why would anyone expect dogs to be perfect all of the time when we aren’t perfect all of the time? Barking once in a while should not be a reason for a fee.
We travel with our dog because she is part of the family. We follow all rules, leashing, pick up poo, no barking, etc. I do not believe the extra fees are justified for a well behaved dog with responsible caretakers. Having said that, not all dogs are well behaved and caretakers ignore barking, restraining and defecating. These are the ones that should definitely be charged a fee.
As a 25+ years camping family, we have always had a dog. We are responsible pet owners that are serious about picking up our pet’s poops – nobody wants their kids to be stepping in it (or a new arrival to walk through it when setting up – both of which have happened to us many, many times). I try to avoid campgrounds that punish dog owners by charging extra (just like the ones that charge extra for kids!) but if I need to be in the area for some reason will pay it if I can’t avoid that campground. If a campground charges these fees and know dog(s) are in a site previously and DO NOT police the site to make sure it’s clean for the next arrivals, their fees are just a money grab and if they do that to me once, shame on them, do it to me twice I’m done with you.
Add on fees in general at RV parks are getting out of control. In addition more and more parks are requiring payment in full or a large deposit up front when making a reservation. In addition their cancellation or change dates fees are becoming expensive and more restrictive. All this in addition to the high price increases that are being charge for a site. Been RVing for 30+ yrs. We usually try to take a trip for 1 week per month all within a 5hr drive from home. Average trip at this time for gas and site fees for a week has been averaging $1100. Think about what we pay for an 18×60 parking pad. One may ask are they crazy with their fees? Or, are we the crazies for paying these outrageous charges plus add ons?
Why are they charging $20 for each dog?? If the owner is the one feeding, watering and picking up after the dog why the extra charge.
A lot of RVers are on a strict budget so these people will simply go on to another campground.
Better yet, if you have an extra charge, where is the doggie park and the little poop bag and trash can??
The problem I’ve experienced too many times is, even the “responsible” dog owners think every square inch of grass in the campground is their dogs personal outhouse, even if it’s on someone else’s site. Too often, I’ve seen them letting their dog poop and pee less than 10 feet from us, on our site, as we’re sitting at our picnic table eating! I always get the, “But I’m picking it up!” I ask “How about the pee?” I don’t want to walk through it or smell it either!” It seems to be all about their pet and no common courtesy or consideration of personal boundries. If there’s no designated area, use your own site!
You call them “responsible” but if they aren’t picking up after their pet then they are “irresponsible” pet owners. Also respectful RVers know to stay in their own camp site with both their kids and their pets. Don’t let rude RVers turn you off to all pet owners. Many of us are responsible & respectful with our pets.
I used “responsible” totally tongue-in-cheek. True responsible and respectible pet owners now seem to be the exception and no longer the norm – and not only in campgrounds.
concur.
I totally agree. I camp in a private owned campsite and apparently there are no rules concerning keeping your dog on a leash , or they’re not enforced. I just recently experienced a bad situation where a new camper came in with two large dogs next to my site. As soon as he opened his car door one of them came charging toward me and I started to scream “get your dog, get your dog”. The owner came out, called his dog and said to me, “he’s friendly”and I replied, “that’s not the point.”
2 days later it happened again, this time my two adult sons were over and three grandchildren ages one to five. Again they pulled up this time the dogs stayed over on their campsite, but then one of the dogs decided to come over, running over again in my direction and two of the grandchildren were sitting by me were terrified. This time I had a spray bottle with vinegar and began to yell at the dog to go away and sprayed vinegar in its direction and it turned and ran the full length of the of the RV still on my site where my 1-year-old granddaughter was. When I saw him charging toward my 1-year-old granddaughter, he could have knocked her down, I jumped up with the spray bottle began yelling ” get out of here, get out of here, you’re supposed to be on a leash”. The dog turned and went back towards it’s own campsite. The dog’s owner came around to my campsite on the other end of where I was now standing and began swearing at me and saying “this is not a state park it’s a private owned campground and my dogs can go anywhere they want.”
This is the kind of irresponsible pet owner who are inconsiderate of other people’s fears and rights as a camper. Sorry to say there are only a few of them that make it bad for everyone else.
This is the reason why I hate stupid dog owners. And its easier to not have dogs rather than deal with good or bad dogs. Even if 99/100 are good, that one can maul anyone
The fee seems reasonable. Hilton Hotel charges $70, Drury Inns $45 a night. Most hotels are $25.
Hotels have carpet, upholstered furniture and beds that can be soiled by animals so we completely understand why. Campgrounds don’t have these amenities so there’s no excuse for charging extra. If, however, the campground has to hire extra staff to clean up after dogs then I understand.
We’re finding that many campgrounds have dog park areas and in those cases the extra cost of maintenance is included in the price.
The problem is they don’t maintain them. They don’t ensure they are picked up after nor do they spray the ground with disinfectant that should be done as routine maintenance when you have 100s of different dogs going in the same small area and most aren’t even big enough for a papillon to stretch their legs in.
I am all for it, those “offended” by the fee are free to look elsewhere. I am weary of stepping out onto my site and finding dog feces – some small (“who’s going to see it anyway, it will go into the grass”), some so large it must be related to an elephant. As an alternative, how about if a dog barks incessantly the owner agrees to a $150 fee along with requirement to leave? Wish ALL parks, private, state, federal would enforce their rules regarding barking dogs. Love dogs, hate most dog owners!
As I write, there are no less than 4 separate dogs in three different sites around me,that have been barking non stop for 10 hours, the owners are oblivious and obviously entitled since they are in the same group. As a canine behavior specialist and trainer with over 30yrs experience, a full timer since 2018, the lack of “responsible” pet ownership amazes me!
Camp Host or Campground owner(s) are also culpable.
I have seen so many unsocialized dogs among RVers. They are afraid for their dogs but that makes them even more vulnerable to larger dogs. Dogs that have no contact with other dogs and snap and bite whenever they are around other animals.
There are too many entitled dog owners who let their dogs bark, run unleashed, not picking up their dog’s poop, thing is dogs can destroy things quickly. This crazy dog mentality has gone too far especially owners of aggressive dogs! I’d gladly pay extra to stay at an RV park that didn’t allow dogs.
Never been charged extra by a campground, but have been charged by a hotel for having our dog. I can see the latter — dog fur makes for additional cleaning. I do not see the justification for campgrounds making such a charge.
Every hotel I have stayed at for the past 6 years that took dogs did not have any carpet and did not charge extra for the dogs.
You can charge for dogs when you start charging for kids. Doing it because you “can”, when it adds no benefit or doesn’t compensate for extra work, is just wrong. I am sure a few of those people who failed to pick up poo, thought they were paying for that service, but I have to admit, most were probably being passive aggressive about the fee.
You shouldnt have to be told to pick up poo..it should be a part of being a responsible dog owner. I hate the owners that let Their dogs poo on Our front lawn and dont pick it up
Pet refundable deposit.
If you come my camp site and there is holes dug up and poop not picked and the wooden benches looked like they have been chewed up then my deposit is used to pay for the damages my dog. If you can’t even tell I had my ESA there then my deposit is refunded.
The owners of the park are the ones that make the rules. If you don’t like them go somewhere else. These people who lie about what kind of dog it is or what the animal is trained to do are losers and the lowest scum on this earth. I have zero tolerance for those who think their better than everyone else …. The campgrounds should too….
Campgrounds should be ashamed of themselves for charging these exorbitant fees…they are the scum of the earth.
If there insurance rates go up for allowing dogs, I think the extra fee is reasonable. Liability insurance can be very expensive, and the campground owner is on the hook if a dog bites some one.
I don’t blame them for protecting their business.
Right on!!! They are losers for sure!
I have been going through the additional charge this spring for the first time time at every campground I have stayed at. It would appear the RV parks have discovered yet a new way to rake in the money.
if they want a $20 fee for a dog. It better have multiple pristine dog parks and a dog wash. Otherwise I’ll skip that campground.
There is a simple solution. If dogs are allowed and are a little burden on the campground, charge everyone a little more ($10? $15?) and use the difference to cover the costs. I like dogs and love camping near them; I’ll happily pay a little more to make sure their needs are also met.
I do not like the new charging of fee’s for your dog – when I leave there is no way for you to tell my dogs have been there. What does the fee go towards? I don;t like it that they put you in a lower quality area – out of the way – no views – plus a fee for your dogs. What is this? They do it for motel/hotel rooms too. All for the same price as better RV spots, or rooms plus a fee. What is with this? I don’t like it.
HATE IT. And if I have to pay $20 you will be picking up after my dogs! What else would I be getting for that $. Dog walks if I leave them in the park for the day while I go exploring?
I just spent the night in a park were I took my pups to the “dog area” for a very little while before leaving. After paying almost $70 for the night and a $5 + tax fee for my dogs I picked up 8 piles of poop in the area. Had I known about the extra $5 I wouldn’t have stayed! I already had sticker shock over the nightly price…more than I paid for a hotel room in the same area last year with no dog fee charged.
The whole reason I have a camper is so I CAN travel with my dogs. I’m ok with a few extra dollars for pet fees as long as the information is stated when I book my site. However if I show up and then you try to charge me. I would be upset. Also, I have 3 dogs, if the fees are too much. I will have to go somewhere else.
I left a RV Park that we had a year round space at after getting an American Bully ( American Stafford Shire Terrier ). The parks insurance would not cover if dogs classified as vicious were present. Many insurance Company’s have a vicious dog clause. Some charge a higher premium.
A lot of cities have ordinances against Pit Bulls, Pit mixes or any dog that resembles a Pit. Most people mistake other breeds as Pits and would not say anything about a pure breed Pit. More and more cities are changing their ordinances from Pit Bulls to vicious dogs.
My American Bully is my big Baby. Yes she can show aggressiveness but most often she just wants to play.
I only use privately owned
They already charge extra for dogs in a hotel. Why in the heck would rvers be charged? Totally unfair rip off
Dog fees are beyond aggravating . Mary’s right: JUST BECAUSE THEY CAN. Unbridled greed. And yeah, I _don’t_ succumb to temptation, but I’ve thought about giving the park an opportunity to earn their flippin’ fee.
Last time we camped at a very expensive camping resort we were surrounded by five families with a total of eighteen children. My two poor little dachshunds were tormented every time they went out to pee by this horde of kids playing out in the middle of the road in the cul de sac. They were up all night, parents out drinking by the fire. Why not charge them? When are the people charging their EV going to be charged extra? It’s getting ridiculous.
I disagree with charging for dogs. I do believe in rules for owners with dogs, however. Like, no aggressive dogs (well behaved only) proof of rabies shot, must clean up your dogs poop and dispose of Properly, etc. We follow rules-many rules are intact for safety and environmental reasons. I would not want to stay where there were no rules.