Summer will be here before we know it, and starting an activity pack for trips with your dog will give you a head start on your next adventure together!
Having the following items handy will keep your dog safe, happy, and comfortable, while giving you peace of mind knowing you’re prepared.
Rex Specs goggles are proven to keep your dog’s eyes clear of debris, especially if your dog likes to hang their head out of the car window 😉. Additionally, these goggles will protect your dog’s eyes from hanging branches while running through the woods during your hikes.
Additionally, Rex Specs offers all sorts of training resources to help your dog become comfortable and used to wearing them.
A dog first aid kit is a must-have. While we hope we’ll never need to use one, having one handy can help keep your dog comfortable while you work to get them to a local vet or animal hospital.
Keeping your dog hydrated during your travels, especially in the heat of summer, is crucial. Dogs can become dehydrated quickly, so having a water bottle that’s easy to pack and distribute water from is essential. These bottles are designed to deliver water quickly and efficiently with minimal waste.
Even in the warmer months, having a blanket handy can keep your dog comfortable while laying on hard surfaces. Choosing one that can be easily hosed off or wiped down will also add to ease-of-use so that you can pack it away when they’re finished using it.
A waterproof bag to store miscellaneous items will help ensure that if you get caught in a rainstorm, splashed by a waterfall, or hit by a rogue wave, all of your items remain dry.
Things to keep safe and dry: cell phone, keys, wallet, your dog’s vet records for emergencies, and food.
A long leash (typically 15-20 feet) trailing behind your dog offers peace of mind if their recall isn’t at a level you trust in all situations. It’s especially useful in case of emergencies.
Additionally, some parks and town ordinances require dogs to be leashed at all times. A long leash will allow your dog the freedom to roam, while still giving you the ability to bring them back to you if needed.
For activities in the wild, a harness is often better than attaching a leash to a collar. Dogs can slip out of collars, especially if they’re running or moving about. A harness is the safer option.
Not all harnesses are the same, so we’ve provided some reliable options that are a good starting point for your adventures.
In Closing
Having an adventure pack with the items listed above, ready to grab and go (especially for spontaneous trips), will be one less thing to worry about during your travels. As always, be sure to check your local state and state park ordinances to ensure you’re following all regulations regarding what they allow for dogs and what owners are required to do before visiting.
Nicolas Angione is the founder and head dog trainer at Hope Gables Canine, based in Fairfield County, CT. Inspired by his own dog's reactive journey and rehabilitation, he left his career behind to become a dog trainer. After years of shadowing other dog trainers in the industry, he started his own practice, which has successfully helped hundreds of dog owners, both domestic and abroad, regain peace and harmony with their dogs. Many of these success stories, dog training tips, and more can be found on their Instagram and YouTube pages.
