UTVing with Your Dog
It can be very disappointing to leave your furry friend behind when you hit the trails for a UTV adventure. The great news is that you can take your dog along with you. All you need to do is follow a few precautions to ensure your pet has a safe and enjoyable experience. After all, your dog is a part of your family, and you want to include them in your adventures as much as possible.
The experts at Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County have put together a brief guide on what you need to know before you take your pet out on a side-by-side with you. If you have any questions or want to check out some UTVs before your next trip, stop by one of our dealership locations in Pennsylvania, serving Indiana and Ohio.
Keep Them Crated
As fun as it is to let them be free in the UTV and stick their nose out of the vehicle, a little bit of freedom can quickly become a safety hazard. Crating them is the best way to ensure that you stay focused while riding your side-by-side. If necessary, you’ll want to take some time before your trip to get your dog comfortable with traveling in a crate.
Once you feel your dog is comfortable enough to embark on a UTV trip, pay close attention to his or her needs. Keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort like whining or pacing. If your dog displays any signs of discomfort, he may be uncomfortable and need to head back home.
Hydration, Food, and Rest
Dogs need to drink plenty of water, especially now that it’s summer, and eat just enough to stay fed, without overeating. This may mean stopping more often than you normally would. Speaking of which, breaks are very important. Your dog needs opportunities to stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Doing so will make your dog happier and it’ll be easier to get them to enjoy the UTV ride.
Remember to pack enough of your dog’s food to last for the duration of your trip. You’ll want to stick to regular feeding times the best you can. A few other items you can bring to ensure your dog has a good time are toys and treats. Set aside special toys that are only for the UTV, which helps them associate the vehicle with fun. Bring some treats along as a way to reward positive behavior.
For more information on UTVing with your dog, visit us at Bobcat of Pittsburgh/Erie/Indiana County. Serving Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, our team will be happy to help you with all your UTV needs, so stop by today!