Overlanding with Dogs: Do’s and Dont’s
DO Make Sure Your Pup is Up to Date on All Vaccinations
It’s important to keep your dog safe and healthy while traveling, so making sure they have all their vaccines like rabies and preventative measures, such as those for ticks and fleas, is a top priority. Considering a GPS collar is a good idea in case your dog gets startled and runs off, or otherwise gets separated from you and/or your group. Keeping your pup away from animals and plants is important, so have a leash or two handy.
DO Make Sure It’s Legal
National parks, states and counties all differ in rules, regulations, and laws. Make sure each place and stop on the planned trip allows dogs, and if they are allowed, check what the guidelines are for bringing them along. Doing this before you put the pedal to the metal will save you a lot of headaches later on. (Pro-tips: Some places may allow your dog if they’re on a leash, so make sure to pack one or two, and always pack compostable doggie bags to clean up after your little pal)
DO Make Sure to Pack Supplies for You and Your Dog
Your dog is a member of your group like any other, so it’s pertinent you pack supplies for them like you would yourself. Enough food and water for the trip are at the top of the list, but comfort isn’t far behind. A collapsible water bowl to take on hikes makes it easier for your pup to stay hydrated than trying to drink while you’re pouring it out of your bottle. For multi-day and especially chilly trips, a blanket and sleeping pad are good to keep your dog comfortable. Accidents and injuries happen, so pack a first aid kit that includes tweezers, wrap bandages, hydrogen peroxide, and other essential first aid items. It might even be a good idea to get your pal a doggy backpack for them to carry on their backs. Booties for muddy areas, or the hot ground on those higher temp days are never a bad idea, either. Lastly, never forget those treats!
DON’T Keep Your Dog Loose in the Car
With offroading, the terrain is rarely ever flat, and all that bouncing around could jostle and potentially injure your dog. Dog harnesses that can attach to a seatbelt can help secure your dog and keep them in one place when everything else might fly around. Smaller dogs should go in a soft carrier that can be strapped in by the seat belt and buckled to their seatbelt for extra safety.
DON’T Forget to ID Your Dog
A GPS collar is great for when you need to find your dog, but what if someone else finds them first? Your dog’s collar should have the appropriate tags containing vital information, such as their name, your name, and your phone number. Microchipping your pup should always be done, as accidents can happen and collars can be broken or lost. Vets and shelters will always scan pets for a microchip, and will contact the registered owner, so if your pup is already chipped, you’ll want to confirm the registered information is up-to-date with your current address and phone number.
DON’T Dive In Headfirst Without a Trial Run
You might be excited and want to dive right into your first trip with your dog, but is your dog ready? It’s important to do a few trial runs on easy trips to see how your dog does in a moving, rocking vehicle, on long drives (dogs get car sick, too!), or if they’ll run off once they're in the open, see a small critter, or hear unfamiliar sounds. Dogs can be hurt just like you, so it’s important to keep in mind that not all dogs will enjoy an activity like this, and may be better suited for backyard play time and local park walks/hikes, especially if they’re prone to accidents, have hip or joint problems, or trouble with their vision It’s also highly suggested that you try out a few trips on your own first to better discern whether it’s the right trip for your dog to come out on.