How to Keep Your Dog Safe on Your UTV

Do you want to create memorable experiences with your dog while exploring your favorite trails? Do you want extra help with hunting? Whatever the reason may be, the good news is that you can take your furry friend with you on your off-road trips. However, you’ll need to take a few additional steps to ensure your dog is happy, comfortable, and relaxed on the trip. Our experts at RideNow Powersports Austin have created this guide to get you started. For more ideas, visit us at our dealership in Austin, TX, where we happily welcome our friends from San Marcos, Round Rock, and New Braunfels.

Tips to Transport Your Dog

Before you take your dog on an off-road adventure, you’ll want to make them comfortable with the idea of traveling with your UTV. Try taking them around your neighborhood and build up the speed and length with each time.

When traveling to the trails, don't let your dog roam your side-by-side. Not only can they jump or fall out of the moving vehicle, but they might also distract you while you’re driving and jeopardize your safety and the safety of others around you.

Use a crate for your dog to ride safely on your UTV. Remember to use tie-downs to secure the box to the bed of your vehicle or you risk it slipping right off. A few treats and toys can help your dog associate the crate with fun and make them more welcoming of the idea of traveling in a container.

To make the setup cozier for your furry friend, throw on a kennel cover to keep them warm on a cold day and allow plenty of ventilation of fresh air to keep them cool on a hot day.

How to Pack Your UTV

To make your trip as joyful for your dog as possible, bring along all the necessary supplies you think your dog will need on your outing.

Take a water bowl to keep them hydrated. A collapsible bowl is lightweight, easy to carry, and an excellent space-saving option, too. Don’t forget to bring a pet first aid kit, which will equip you to handle minor health emergencies at the trails. If you want to make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable for both of you, consider installing a windshield to your side-by-side. It'll help block debris and wind and make the ride safer for your pet.

In addition to these, you can also bring along a few more items, which aren't essential, but they can vastly enhance your experience when traveling with a pet. These items include an LED collar light that can make your dog visible at night, booties to protect their feet from rugged terrain, and a brush to get out stickers and other items that might cling to your dog's fur.

How to Take an Extended Trip

To take your dog on an extended off-roading vacation, you’ll need to make sure that:

• Your dog is healthy and ready for the trip.
• You pack all the necessary supplies, such as their medication, plenty of regular food, and a bed to make them more comfortable.
• You let your dog follow their normal routine as closely as possible, such as regular bedtimes and mealtimes.

We hope this guide helps you keep your dog happy and safe on your next outing. For more ideas, connect with our experts at RideNow Powersports Austin. We're in Austin, TX, and proud to serve those from San Marcos, Round Rock, and New Braunfels.