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Man's Best Friend Makes
A Great Off-Road Companion

Camping Dogs
Photos by Snoopy
When we think of trip companions, friends, family members, co-workers, and others readily come to mind. All too often one important “family member” gets left behind: your dog. Many times we assume that our four-legged friends aren’t compatible, are too much of a bother, or would just cause trouble. Sure, there are times and places that shouldn’t include any pet, but more often than not, your dog would be a nice complement to your trip outdoors.

Dogs are tailor-made for an off-road trip. In fact, they crave the outdoors. Recall how often you’ve taken your “buddy” out for a run, and it seemed as if Buddy would never want to leave. That flashing tail, darting nose, and excited eyes tell you just how much he was enjoying himself.

Having a dog entails a certain amount of responsibility, of course. They require regular feeding and exercise, and therefore are an obligation. Because of this commitment, owners tend to leave their pets at home when they head out for a drive. Sadly, some people forgo the off-road experience because they are unable to find anyone to dog sit. That’s too bad.

We need to rethink this issue of bringing dogs along. A dog can bring so much to an outing that after the first off-road excursion, you’ll wonder why you don’t bring him along each time. With the right kind of preparation, your pet can add immeasurably to your experience outdoors.

You already spend quite a bit of time preparing for your trip. Accounting for a pet involves just a few extra steps and moments. Don’t let those stop you from enjoying a complete weekend.

Happy Dogs
First and foremost is care and safety of your dog. Pack sufficient food and a lot of water. If you will be driving more than an hour or so before going off-road, schedule a potty break for the pooch (maybe for yourself, as well). Consider weather conditions of your location. The desert gets blazing hot during the day, and the mountains can get very cold and snowy. Make sure your dog is kept out of the extremes.

Be mindful of the heat. With their furry coats, dogs are susceptible to heat stroke, which can be deadly.

I’d like to thank my son, Mike Severin DVM, for the following additional suggestions:

  • Apply a flea and tick preventative, such as Frontline® and Advantage® and a preventative against heartworm. Heartguard® is a good product.
  • Make sure the rabies and distemper shots are up to date. Ask your vet if other precautions might be necessary, considering the environment you will be in. Also ask whether the Lyme vaccine is appropriate.
  • Use a crate to transport your pet. That’s safer, especially when driving on bumpy roads or trails. Of course, strap the box down.
  • Record your phone number and the dog’s name on its collar. You may even consider having a microchip embedded in the dog.
  • Pack plastic bags to clean up after your pet and a stake and leash to keep him at the campsite.
  • Clean up any antifreeze spill! Antifreeze smells and tastes good to your dog, but it is lethal.


Be considerate of the other campers in your group. Some may be allergic to pets, while others may be bringing pets of their own. Observe how your pet interacts with other humans and dogs once you arrive. Bear in mind that it may take several hours for all the pets to get acclimated to each other and the humans.

The outdoors are beautiful, but also contain their share of hazards. Plants like cacti (discussed in Prickly Thing In The Desert Can Put A Hole In Your Plans) and critters such as wolves and cougars present special challenges. Smaller dogs are especially susceptible to being grabbed by a large predator.

Do not let your dog run as you drive. They need to be secured inside the vehicle - preferably with a harness. The danger of being run over is ever present along with heat exhaustion.

You also need to stay informed on regulations regarding pets on public lands. Most, if not all, public areas require your dog to be leashed. You should always clean up after your pet, and walk only on designated trails. Don’t allow your dog to harass wild animals. In the case of skunks and porcupines, Fido can easily learn a nasty lesson. But make sure your dog doesn’t chase deer, squirrels, or other animals. All of you—humans and pets alike—should enjoy the stroll together.

Taking your dog along creates those memories that last a lifetime. They are, after all, a part of your family. Just like a family member, they can enjoy the outdoors and enhance your overall experience. The next time you make plans for an off-road excursion, plan on taking along your four-legged friend. You’ll be glad you did.

You’ll be glad you did.

Related Articles at Badlands Off-Road Adventures
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Easter Safari March 29, 2010


Moab

LAST CHANCE to sign up for Easter Safari March 29 – April 2. We will close registration January 29th. All the trail rides are assigned by lottery. The submission date for the lottery is early to mid February. As of Jan, 29, I will be cancelling the extra hotel reservations.

You need to register right away at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS.

Check out http://4x4training.com/Adventures/EasterSafari/EJSMain.html

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Tread Trainer Clinic February 19, 2010


Tread Class Example

There is a Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Clinic Feb 19, 2010 in Sacramento as part of the CA4WDC Convention. This is a one day course. There is a minimal fee of $25 to cover class materials and handouts. It requires a commitment to teaching and spreading the word about Tread Lightly! Principles and outdoor ethics.

More details on line at http://www.4x4training.com/TrainingClinics/Tread.html .

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Tread.

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Rocks Clinic January 30 and February 6, 2010


Rocks Clinic Example

The January Class will be in Johnson Valley and the February Class will be at Calico. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details...


You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks
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Sand Clinic February 21, 2010

Sand Clinic
If you have been waiting for the next Sand Driving Clinic, put it on your calendar for February 21st and sign up now. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we’ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...



Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand

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Winch Clinic February 28, 2010


Winch Class Example

Make plans to attend this Winch clinic. We will be holding it at a new location. This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. More Details...


You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch



I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

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Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2010, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.





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