Dog Days Out

Your dog is part of the family, and taking him or her out for the day to the beach, a countryside park or even on holiday with you is all part of the fun of dog ownership.

Planning your trip shouldn’t be a stressful experience, but taking a young dog particularly out to somewhere new can be an exciting time for them, and it’s all too easy to forget a vital piece of equipment when you’re rushing to get out of the door!

Therefore we’ve put together some helpful tips and advice to help you arrive at your destination relaxed, and make the most of your time together…

Traveling tips

  • If you are traveling by car make sure that your dog is safely secured either with a dog guard, harness or travel crate so that he can’t roam around loose in the car. This is safer for him in the event of an accident and also means that he is less likely to cause distraction to the driver.
  • It is also important to a nice comfy space of his own in the car, with a blanket or some bedding so that provide him with he can lie down and relax during the journey, especially if you are going to be traveling for a couple of hours.
  • When planning your journey make sure that you include “rest stops” for your dog as well as yourself as he will appreciate the opportunity to get a bit of fresh air and stretch his legs too!

When you’re there

  • Poo bags are an essential to take with you wherever you go! ALWAYS clear up after your dog and make sure that you dispose of full poo bags in the appropriate bins. Doing your bit really makes a difference.
  • Make sure your dog is wearing a collar with an identification tag on, (ideally listing your mobile number) in case he should get separated from you in unfamiliar territory.
  • Always take a supply of fresh water for the journey and when you are out and about, along with a suitable water bowl or container as dogs can very quickly become dehydrated, especially in hot weather, so offer it at regular intervals.
  • Be prepared and take a “doggy” First Aid kit with you so that you can deal with any minor injuries which might occur whilst you are having fun on your day out.
  • NEVER leave your dog unattended in your car on a hot day - the temperature can build up very quickly even when it doesn’t feel that warm outside!
  • Make sure that dogs are welcome at the place you are planning on spending the day – some beaches ban dogs, particularly during the summer months.
  • On really hot days try not to walk your dog in the middle of the day when the temperature is at its hottest.
  • Dogs with white patches and pink skin can burn in the sun just like we do, so you may need to provide some form of sun block to stop them from burning.
  • Take care when walking your dog where other people may be picnicking – not everyone will see the funny side of an unknown dog sharing their lunch!!
  • If you are going to be spending a lot of time outside on a sunny day make sure that your dog has access to plenty of shade, and remember that the shaded areas move as the sun changes position throughout the day.

Food for thought

  • Changing your dog’s food suddenly can cause digestive upsets so if you do need to feed him whilst you are out make sure you take some of his normal food with you.
  • However tempting it is, don’t give into letting your dog have some of your picnic lunch or ice cream, as some human food can make your dog ill. If you do want to provide him with a little treat why not try one of Chudleys Big Bites? Based on our popular Chudleys Original recipe, this treat bar has been formulated specially for dogs and comes in a handy pocket –sized pack, making it ideal for days out!
  • If you’re thinking about staying the night and want to make sure your dog is welcome, why not check out the Pride of Britain Hotels collection? We’ve partnered up with them, and some dog friendly hotels even have sample packs of Chudleys food to take away with you. We’ve listed the complete collection of hotels that accept dogs here.