UTV Riding with Your Dog
On your next UTV adventure, bring your four-legged best friend! Many dogs can enjoy a safe and fun UTV ride with their owners. It just takes a little proactivity and planning and you can hit the trail together. Maybe you want assistance when you go hunting. Maybe you want a hiking buddy. Whatever the situation, use the following guide to set yourself (and your dog) up for success. If you have any questions or want to explore UTVs for sale, head over to Nielsen Enterprises. Our dealership is located in Lake Villa, Illinois. We welcome those coming from Chicago, Illinois, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Tips for Transporting Your Dog
You should never let your dog roam around your UTV freely while it is in motion. They could jump or fall out of the moving vehicle and risk injury. Or they could interfere with your ability to safely drive. A better approach is to use a crate. Make sure you secure the crate to your UTV bed using tie downs. Even if you ride slowly, a loose crate can easily slip off.
When you take your dog with you, make sure to account for the weather. If it's cold out, put a kennel cover on the crate to help keep your dog warm. If it's a hot day, check that there is enough ventilation of fresh air to prevent the crate from feeling stuffy and hot.
You'll likely need to build your dog's comfort level with crate transportation. If they’re unfamiliar with the crate, introduce it to them in a calm setting. Place treats and/or toys inside to help them identify the crate with fun. After they are comfortable with the crate itself, go for quick rides to get them used to being in the crate while the vehicle is moving. Build up the time they spend on your UTV until they are used to a normal ride's length.
Tips for Packing Your UTV
If you're bringing your dog on your ride, you will want to bring certain supplies. A water bowl is essential to ensure they stay hydrated. If you are cramped for space, consider a collapsible bowl. You'll also want to pack a pet first aid kit. This can help you handle minor medical issues and help tie your dog over in a major health situation until you can get to a vet.
If you'll be riding at a time of day where lighting is limited, attach an LED collar light to your dog's collar. This will help you see them more easily. Consider giving them booties to help protect their feet from harsh, rugged terrain. A brush can be helpful to get out the stickers that cling do your dog's fur.
Tips for Overnight Trips
You may want to take your dog for an overnight trip, such as a camping trip or an out-of-town hunting trip. Before you go, consider taking your dog to the vet for a checkup. You don't want to uncover a health issue when you are in a remote area far from a vet and travel can exacerbate health issues. Make sure your dog is healthy before you take a long journey.
You'll also want to bring the supplies to ensure your dog stays healthy and comfortable on the trip. Bring more than enough of their usual dog food since changing up their diet can result in digestive issues. Pack a bed that has their scent on it, which will help them fall asleep more easily.
On your trip, try to stick to your normal routine as much as you can. Keep bedtimes and meal times as consistent as possible. The consistency helps reduce stress and helps your dog feel more secure while they’re in unfamiliar territory.
We hope you found this guide to UTV riding with your dog useful! If you want more advice or want to shop UTVs for sale, visit Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, Illinois. Our staff is always happy to chat with you and help you get what you need. We can provide advice on what UTV best suits your needs, answer questions about the UTV lifestyle, and more. We proudly serve those in Chicago, Illinois, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.