Summer is prime time for walking trips and exploring the great outdoors. Since our dogs are members of the family, we’re always looking for ways we can include them too. But when it comes to walking trips with your pooch, there are some special considerations you have to bear in mind, it's not quite as simple as just 'pack up and leave.'Here are 8 backpacking essentials to ensure you and your dog have a fun and safe walking trip this summer.
Water
Be sure to pack plenty of water for both you and your dog. Hydration is the number one priority here. While exercising in the heat you’ll both be thirstier than normal, so you may need to pack more than you’d expect. Dogs need to drink up to 50% more in hotter climates and you certainly don’t want to run out when you are miles away from anywhere. Furr Boost grab & go cartons are perfect for all of your adventures where your dog is by your side on long walks or on very hot days. Alternatively Pawer Water are advanced hydration sachets with added collagen, electrolytes , minerals and vitamins for rehydration.
Collapsible Bowl / Doggy Water Bottle
Ensure your dog has an easy way to get a drink. The best space-saving option is a collapsible bowl. You can whip it out on-the-go to ensure your pooch stays hydrated.
Doggy First Aid Kit
A doggy first aid kit is a must in case your furry friend has an accident while out and about. You don’t want to be caught out in the middle of nowhere without any medical means. The kit will have a few essentials so you can help your dog feel better until you can see a vet.
Essentials to include are:
Colloidal Silver or Leucillin. Ideal for insect bites and minor cuts.
Adored Beast Your Go 2 - A first response combination to help calm at initial onset of “a situation” such as distress from thunderstorms, going to the Vet or somewhere new, GI upsets and more. With Aconite and Arnica. Ideal to have on hand- (Currently not available)
Natures Greatest Secret Advanced Recovery Serum for Dogs 100ml All Natural Fast Acting for Minor Wounds, Sores, Irritations, and Injuries.
Natural Dog Company Skin Soother - natural antibiotic topical treatment for minor cuts, rashes, abrasions, burns, minor wounds and dry, itchy and irritated skin.
The Natural Dog Company, Snout Soother is a snout soothing nose balm for windburn protection and natural sunscreen, equivalent to an estimated SPF 9. It can also be used around the face, lips and ears.
Diet-Dog Skin Relief Spray- For minor injuries such as minor cuts, insect bites and stings
Hemp by Hownd, Skin, Nose & Paw with added sun protection protects, soothes and moisturises all year round.
Booties
You may come across difficult terrain or hot surfaces while out walking. Booties can help protect your dog’s paw pads from burning, cuts and scrapes. Just be sure to pack spares in case your dog loses one, and ensure your dog is comfortable with them on before your hiking trip. Alternatively, you could try the Natural Dog Company's Pawtector that provides a layer of protection to your dogs sensitive paws that helps against hot and uneven surfaces.
Cooling jacket/Cooling Bandana
The sweltering heat can be extremely tough on dogs as they can’t regulate their temperature as well as we can. Help your dog stay cool with a cooling jacket or bandana, like a reversible bandana by Dogsnug.
Dog towel, Doggy Wipes or Drying Coat
If your dog gets wet and muddy after a fun-filled day exploring, you’ll be grateful for a dog towel. Pack a towel so you can wipe off dirty paws before you settle down in the tent for the night. Or for something quick what about all-natural biodegradable Natural Dog Company Dog Grooming Wipes , or Hownd Yup You Stink Dog Wipes or Biogance Cleansing Wipes If temperatures drop during those summer nights and if your dog doesn’t have thick fur, bring a doggy jacket or a blanket to ensure they stay warm.
Doggy sun protection
If you’re not careful your dog’s skin can burn in the summer heat. Dogs with white or thin coats are more prone to burning, so make sure you pack some non-chemical doggy sun cream to protect their skin. Pay special attention to sensitive areas like the nose, ears, belly and around the lips. Try and distract your dog whilst applying to stop them from licking it off to give it a chance to soak in.
Hownd Playful Pup Skin Nose and Paw Balm is 100% vegan, unscented, fast-absorbing and natural. This has added UV filters which provides up to 8% protection from UVB & UVA rays. It provides a level of protection from harmful sun rays. It is not a total sunblock, so it is advised to when possible keep your dog out of direct sun in hot weather. It’s main purpose is to soothe, moisturise and protect paw pads, noses and outer ears or any exposed skin, and can be used therefore in the winter and summer months.
Natural Dog Company Snout Soother has an estimated equivalent SPF 9. When used as a sunscreen it is best to be applied just before your dog is exposed to the sun. This should last 12 hours but there is no harm reapplying the balm more frequently. As these products are 100% natural and organic, there is no adverse affects applying several times per day for added protection, if worried.
Head lamp
A head lamp will allow you to keep an eye on your dog during night-time toilet breaks. It’ll also come in handy inside the tent when it’s dark and you’re getting ready for bed.
Have fun this summer and make sure you and your dog are safe.
