If you’re the type who enjoys both outdoor activities and life with dogs, then you’ll know that having a canine companion during your adventure can make the experience much more enjoyable.
Your dog may appreciate the opportunity to go exercise somewhere different as well as bond with you a little farther away from home. To that end, if this is your first time taking your dog out on a travel adventure, here are some recommended spots you can head on to:
1) Hiking Trails
Hiking is a great avenue for appreciating the beauty of nature while allowing both you and your dog to get a physical workout in. It also promotes mindfulness and gives you a means to leave the stresses of everyday life behind for the path ahead of you.
It would be great to take your dog along for your next hike if they don’t mind the long walk up and down the trail. However, do keep in mind that there are several preparations you need to take beforehand to ensure their safety, as well as yours.
For starters, check first if dogs are allowed on the trail. Make sure to keep them on a sturdy enough collar and leash combo, exploring options like custom Martingale collars and weatherproof leashes. This will make it easier to keep them from accidentally running off the trail or wandering off on their own. Also bring along plenty of water, treats, a first aid kit, and waste bags.
2) Beaches
Excited about the perfect summer adventure with your dog? Consider hitting the beach and taking them for a swim. Dogs are often delighted to be wading in the water if they know how to swim, and the beach is an open space where they can do that while having enough ground to run on as well. As with any open public space where you intend to take your dog, confirm beforehand if the beach allows pets and if the terrain is suitable for them. Some dog-friendly beaches that you’ll be able to find in California alone are the Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington, the Olde Port Beach in San Luis Obispo, and Fort Funston Beach in San Francisco, to name a few.
Closely monitor your canine companion during the beach trip to prevent any dangerous and tragic accidents. Check first if the waves are manageable enough for your dog to swim in. Also make sure that they don’t eat anything strange as well, such as sand or marine life that’s washed up on the shore. Lastly, take note that saltwater can irritate your dog’s skin if left on it for too long, so don’t forget to wash seawater and sand off their coat after their swim.
3) Nearby Camping Grounds
If you’d prefer to spend quiet time in the woods, take your dog and some other human and canine friends to your nearest campsite. Depending on the range of facilities the campground offers, you can also partake in various other outdoor activities like playing sports or trying out obstacle courses. These will surely serve as healthy outlets for your pup’s physical and mental energy.
While most campgrounds welcome dogs, they may still have requirements you’ll need to comply with, such as a particular leash length and proof that your dog is up to date with their vaccinations. Prep these requirements well ahead of your trip, on top of essentials like a collapsible feeding bowl, water and treats, outdoor toys, a pet first aid kit, and waste bags, among others.
Keep a close eye on your dog to ensure that they behave around other campers and that they aren’t interacting strangely with the campsite wildlife—for instance, by being too aggressive with other animals or eating unknown plants. If it’s your dog’s first time in the area, watch out as well for symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing or excessive itching, and provide them with medicine as needed.
4) Biking Trails
Your dog can also make for a fun biking partner, helping the two of you get your exercise for the day while letting your dog take in new sights and sounds during the ride. Do check with your veterinarian first if your dog is in good enough shape to run as fast as you bike. Stick to shorter distances and more forgiving terrains if it’s their first time.
As your dog will essentially be running alongside you as you cycle, get an appropriate leash attachment for your bike so you’re assured that they won’t go off-path. Choose one that’s both flexible and stiff enough so that your dog can follow your pace and not derail it.
5) Caves
If you want to try out something different entirely, why not go caving with your dog? Again, check with the local authorities who have oversight over a particular caving system if you’re allowed to bring a dog along during excursions.
Prepare a sturdy, non-slip leash for the trip, as you certainly wouldn’t want your dog to be running off deeper into the cave. Also keep in mind that not all dogs do well in such claustrophobic spaces. If you see your dog shaking, whining, or panting, chalk these up to stress and take them immediately to an open area.
Your dog can be your best companion yet for your next outdoor adventure, but it’s still up to you to ensure their safety and well-being during the trip. Keep that in mind as you explore new spots and add to your dog’s adventure list.
