A dog-friendly holiday - Some tips

In the past we have already given you some tips to facilitate a camping holiday with a pet.It's worth repeating: going on holiday with your pet is easier than you think, as long as you respect a few precautions and pay some attention.sharing some free time with your dog, introducing him to an environment different from the one he is used to can be a wonderful experience. Of course, if the holiday we have organized is in a camping or if we are moving with the camper or the caravan, everything is much easier: dogs can have their own space and they know they are quiet in a "protected" environment. And if instead we are going to have a travelling holiday with the tent on our shoulders, would it be possible to take the dog with us? Of course, it's just a matter of getting organised! Here are some of our tips.

The pre-departure preparation

First (and most important): go to your vet for a complete visit. There are many variables to take into account, from the dog's age to any physical problems, and it's a good idea for a specialist to consider them. Once you have obtained the green light, ask what vaccinations are necessary according to the route you have in mind. Another thing to do, a few months before departure, is to physically prepare our friend: if we have chosen a mountain route it is good to get him used to it by taking a few uphill walks, alternating it with flat routes to strengthen his resistance; if instead we expect long walks but without particular differences in height then it will be enough to organize a program of walks progressively increasing the distance covered. It will also be a good way to see in advance how your dog reacts, avoiding unforeseen events once on holiday.

Think according to our companion

Not all trails are suitable for our animals. We must carefully plan an itinerary that does not strain them, take their needs into account and plan our stops according to their possibilities. Obviously we also have to take into account some adjustments regarding our equipment: bring with us a tent spacious enough for our friend to rest well, fill extra water bottles for him to drink and food to refresh him. Let's not forget also about possible medicines/poms and anti-allergic drugs: we are always in contact with nature, we have to think about any unforeseen events.

Make yourself heard

In a forest or in the mountains the temptations for the dog will be many: animals, plants, desire to make a run, etc.. However, we must also prevent him from putting himself in danger. It is advisable to do a little training to make our friend obey simple orders so that he doesn't always have all eyes on him with the worry that he might get into trouble. Don't let him go near a precipice, avoid contact with other animals or prevent him from eating something toxic are a good reason to dedicate some time (and, in case, some Euros) to this specific training.By taking note of these small suggestions our holiday will be enjoyable and will further strengthen the relationship with our best friend.

Do you have any other advice to give us based on the holidays you have had with your four-legged friend? Write to us!