Outdoors...It's an endless day
of fun whenever you take your canine companion with you. We created
this quick list of outdoor tips to help you and your friend have a safe
adventure each and every time.
Camping, Kayaking, Boating, Fishing, Hunting, and Hiking amongst
other outdoor sports make for great bonding times with your best bud...your dog.
Below are some helpful tips to make certain your fun times are safe times for both you and
your pets.
1. You need water - so does your dog! Make certain you take extra bottled water
for your dog in case you get caught thirsty in an area where there is no or un-clean water for your pet.
2.
Doggie wear is important. During hunting season dogs need to be seen as dogs - not hunted game. Watch
the elements! If you just had your pet groomed, and their hair is shorter, that means their skin will most likely be
more so exposed to intense sunrays causing sunburn. Cold can be a factor too. A light weight Doggy T-Shirt may
help prevent sunburn, while an element overcoat may be just what you need for those cold trips.
3.
Make certain if you are taking your pet(s) camping with you, you plan
on keeping their dry food and snacks in air tight containers to help
prevent ant or other bug infestation. Never leave your pet's food out
in the open in a tent, screen tent, or other favorite locations if you
are not there to supervise and control insect "picnics!"
4.
Don't forget to take your pet's sleeping quarters. If they have a certain bed they can't live without - take it with
you. He/she will be glad to have some familiarity come rest time.
5.
Yes, dogs can swim - but for how long? If you are kayaking, canoeing,
boating, or hiking alongside water, you will want to check out a pet
floatation device. Look for a well made, and approved doggie life vest
to make certain should the unthinkable happen, they will be able to
swim with ease to safety.
6.
Make sure your pet is up to date with shots, heartworm preventatives, and flea/tick preventatives.
7.
Take along a comb, brush, tweezers, and even a pair of hair scissors
(if your dog has longer hair), for those times they just can't help
themselves from checking out that lovely patch of burrs!!!
8.
Pack some pet wipes (available at most super pet stores). These come
in very handy when Fido decides to roll in something dead -
accidentally lap up the left over chili or BBQ sauce at the campfire -
or get into more mud than you wanted to deal with!
9. Always make
certain Fido is welcomed where you are traveling.
10.
Abide by any park rules regarding your pets. Rules have been put into
place to ensure a safe experience for everyone. The biggest rule is to
scoop! So double check your pet's gear bag making certain you have the
needed items to perform quality scooping.
