Tips for a Fun, Safe Summer with Your Pets

It has been a wonderful start to our summer here on the coast. Summer vacations and long days bring plenty of opportunities to take our four-legged companions on many adventures. Here are a few pearls of wisdom about saying safe and organized whether you’re getting ready to walk the hills, parks and beaches, travel, or just hang out with your four-legged companions.

When hiking our local coastal trails, go prepared with just a few items: a quart of water for you and your pet, an extra leash for those just-in-case situations (finding a stray, having your dog’s leash snap, etc...), a few wet naps or moist paper towels in a baggie, your cell phone, and of course the ever-popular poop bags!

Doggie back packs let dogs carry their own water and other equipment, and sharing the load will give your dog a job! Other things you might want to pack include toys, treats (for humans and pups), folding water bowls, and even more poop bags...You can never have too many!...And of course you can have your dog pack out its own full poop bags! 

You can find all sizes and prices of doggie back packs at local and chain pet stores, outdoor equipment sellers such as REI, and on www.Amazon.com or www.PetEdge.com. If you choose to bicycle with your pet this summer you need to provide the above listed items and add a small pet first aid kit. 

When biking, be sure to start out slowly with short sessions to get your pet comfortable with jogging alongside. Pay attention to your dog’s speed and adjust the pace or turn around when fatigue sets in. Watch for oncoming situations -- such as a bunny or cat that may engage your dog’s chase instinct, or a kid bouncing a ball -- that may require you to stop and hold your dog until the potential distractions have passed.

If you choose to take a car trip with your four-legged companion this summer, check weather reports for the areas you’ll drive through to get an idea of the temperatures you’ll face. Double-check that your vehicle’s air conditioning is working properly; if predicted temperatures are high and the dog will be in an unconditioned section, such as the back of pickup truck, plan to travel in the cooler hours of early morning and late evening.

Schedule rest stops and potty breaks every three to four hours. Interstate rest areas have designated pet exercise spots; or ask about dog parks and other dog-friendly venues at motels, restaurants, visitor’s centers, and local pet stores. Remember to offer your pet a bowl of clean water at every stop, and take advantage of the water taps to refill your bottles. 

Pets are like small children in that they need to get rid of excess energy every couple of hours. If conditions at your rest stop allow, play a game of fetch, practice some heeling on leash while you walk around the town, or work on basic obedience such as sits and downs as you rest in a shady park. If your dog is reluctant to get back in the vehicle at the end of a break, reward him once he is back inside with a dog treat.

When packing for your trip, make sure bottles of water and your dog’s drinking bowl are within easy reach for pit stops. You may want to store your canine companion’s dog food in daily portions for convenience -- and to make sure you pack enough, especially if it’s a specialty or prescription food that might be hard to find on the road. Don’t forget any medications your pet may need. A roll of paper towels and disposable paper bowls or plates make for easier cleanup on the road. 

Make sure that your pet has current registration tags and you have a current copy of your pets shots with you. If you are crossing state lines, you might be required to show them.

This summer promises to be one for the record books. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and wonderful places to see...and do it with your four-legged companion by your side!