Picnic Tips For Dogs
Preparing a picnic for dogs is apparently not a very complex plan. However, in addition to our pet, food and destination, there are several other factors that must also be taken into account.
Undoubtedly, one of the advantages of having a dog is the possibility of having fun with him outside the home environment. Thus, a pleasant and healthy option, for both the dog and the owner, can be to share a meal in the midst of nature.
However, for the experience to be satisfactory, it is good to know the recommendations of veterinarians and ethologists on how to prepare a picnic for dogs:
- Choose a suitable location, whether in a rural environment or in an urban park with the necessary conditions for this. In both cases, the tranquility of the area must be guaranteed, in addition to avoiding disturbing potential individuals who are not part of the tour.
- If the chosen destination is located in the countryside, it is necessary to make sure in advance that there are hunting reserves or active cattle crossings. In addition, the dog must be educated to keep to the owner’s side even without a leash and to carry out his orders without hesitation.
- Although protection against parasites is also advisable within the urban core, especially during the spring and summer months, the use of pipettes or antiparasitic collars is a priority in natural environments.
- Packing the vehicle to transport the pet: In addition to having a transport box or a suitable containment system for larger dogs, it is also good to bring a toy to distract the animal on the trip. On longer routes, it is also advisable to have portable drinking fountains.
- Food preparation. Organizing a picnic for dogs does not mean that our pet’s diet can be ‘softened’. Therefore, we must maintain a strict attitude between our food and that of our canine companion. This aspect is essential not only to avoid future domestic conflicts, but also for the animal’s own health.
Dog picnic: some more recommendations
Veterinarians warn that many of the canine gastrointestinal disorders occur because of overly permissive behaviors by the guardians.
Although there are foods that do not present an apparent risk, others are classified as ‘forbidden’. Among them, dairy products, avocados, fruits with seeds (harmful to the kidneys) and any kind of sweets stand out.
On the other hand, being strict with our pet’s diet also means being careful not to eat any plants. The so-called purge, common in dogs that want to relieve a gastrointestinal discomfort, can be even more dangerous in environments where there is abundant vegetation, unknown and perhaps toxic.
Therefore, we must be aware of our dog at all times:
- If the tour is going to take more than a day and we don’t have a house on site, it is useful to look for hostels, country houses or hotels that allow the entry of pets.
- If, on the contrary, you choose to camp, there are specialized brands that offer camping tents for dogs that are more comfortable than the carrying case.
Preparing a meal or a walk in a natural environment with the dog can be a different alternative and, at the same time, comforting.
Among other things, this activity promotes the bond between the two or socialization, if it is a group outing. In addition, it also serves to test the level of training so that, based on it, it is possible to program future joint activities.
