Dogs love the outdoors. They notice everything, not only with their eyes but with their whole bodies. Watch Fido, and you’ll see him sniff, move his ears, cock his head, wag his tail, raise his hackles, paw at things, maybe even dig. And if he finds something really, really stinky, watch out! Chances are, he’ll want to roll in it.
One of the best vacays with your dog is hiking. He probably likes that more than any other activity because he gets to explore sights, sounds, and smells he doesn’t usually get to enjoy. Your dog lives with his whole being, so hiking is right up his alley. Parks and lakes, beaches, or pools are also wonderful vacation spots.
Important questions when you plan your time outside with Fido:
1. Where do you want to go?
2. Are dogs allowed?
3. Do you have absolute control of your dog off-leash, or do you plan to keep him on a leash?
4. Is he healthy enough for activity in the sun? For how long?
5. Are you going with other dog owners or just you two?
Be sure your dog is wearing a sturdy collar with a proper license. Today it is easy to have your dog microchipped, and many veterinarians and shelters have scanners to read them. This will facilitate getting Fido back to you if he should get lost.
You never know what you might run into on trails. Other dogs and animals are possible, so be sure your buddy is current on all his vaccines. Even if your state does not require a rabies vaccine, if you are going to hike with him, it’s a good idea to vaccinate against rabies anyway.
Especially in areas where there is a lot of undergrowth or high grass and weeds, your dog may pick up ticks and fleas. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, so if that’s a risk in your area, consider vaccinating Fido against it. Petland has a variety of flea/tick products to choose from.
Not everyone appreciates dogs and you should brush up on his manners before exposing the world to him. Don’t let him approach anyone uninvited.
Musts:
Keep your dog close
Clean up after him
Bring plenty of clear water and a bowl
Bring a spray bottle of water for spritzing his body, but avoid his face
Be aware of trail side hazards
Bring along a first aid kit and check paws often
Must Nots:
Don’t let your dog run around loose
Don’t let Fido enter private property (even through wire fences)
Don’t let him drink any water but what you bring
Don’t let your dog approach strangers
Don’t let him bark excessively
Don’t let Fido eat anything off the ground
Most importantly, have tons of fun with your pooch as we continue through the rest of the Summer and stay safe!
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