Today, Lucy has written an article we can all appreciate. We all look forward to our vacation time but often we find it difficult to bring our pets along with us when we travel. As you will see, this does not have to be the case. There are many available options for pet owners who want to bring their pets along for the trip.Here are some to consider.
Choosing a Destination
If you are planning to go traveling and want to bring your pooch along, it's good to know what is best for both of you to thrive together. Active travelers have plenty of options to keep themselves and their furry friends fit and healthy. For example, you could take your canine paddle camping or trek into a canyon.
When choosing a destination, think about your dog's limitations. Would they be comfortable on a bike trail? Are they fit enough to be prepped for a trip into the mountains? If you do not want to venture too far into the wilds but still want to get in touch with nature, you have alternative choices available to you. You could take your pup to a magical camping site run by Disney World or even take them surfing at Del Mar Dog Beach in California.
Visiting Unfamiliar Dog Parks
On your travels, you may find plenty of dog parks to explore. These can be wonderful places to have fun in, but they are still unfamiliar to both of you. Research any parks before visiting, as it's good to know their rules and layout. When it comes to safety, make sure your companion is properly vaccinated and has products designed to protect against parasites. You never know what might be lurking in the grass of a new park. If you have not already, microchip your canine and ensure they have secure ID tags. Your friend is likely going to encounter many new dogs. They may not get along with all of them, so if a fight does occur, do not get in the way. Instead, find ways to de-escalate the tension through distraction so that you do not sustain any injuries.
Practice Travel-Friendly Workouts
Going some place new is the perfect excuse to keep on foot, whether through hiking or sightseeing. Look into your itinerary to see what could aid your workout, like availing of park gym equipment. Core workouts can be practiced anywhere, so don't be afraid to incorporate squats, lunges, and crunches into your travel routines. Remember, dogs are excellent motivators, and having them by your side can not only keep you going but get you discovering new places, too! You have options when it comes to sharing a good workout, but it may be through trial and error as your canine becomes familiar with different exercises. Hiking, hill climbing, and the staple jog are all fantastic choices, and basic workouts could be performed while your dog waits patiently or plays next to a park bench.
Have the Right Gear
With the right equipment, you can keep fit while on the go and do so anywhere. There are portable variations of kettlebells, while ankle weights and water-filled sandbags can be valuable additions to your travels, too. At the very least, bring resistance bands and a jump rope for muscle work and cardio, as they are light enough to put in the backseat or a carry-on. Pack appropriate clothing, from basics like sneakers and shorts to protective gear for trips into challenging terrain. Make sure that your companion has proper gear, as well. Aid hikes and other strenuous activity with doggie boots, a coat if you anticipate low temperatures, or a cooling collar to prevent overheating. If you are considering heading out at night, a safety light is a prudent addition. Bowls should be collapsible, while a first-aid kit is essential.
Bringing your dog along on your travels can give you fantastic opportunities to stay active and engaged. Find a destination that is perfect for the both of you, make sure to pack all the right equipment, and remember that some workouts can be done just about anywhere. You do not need to put staying fit on hold, especially when you have the perfect companion!
Image Courtesy of Pixabay.com
Thank you so much Lucy for this well thought out, interesting and informative article. It is always a pleasure to share your work and your insights.