Your dog can make a great passenger on a side by side trip! Some enthusiasts bring their dog onto their UTV to assist with hunting while others just enjoy exploring the woods with their four-legged pal. Whatever your reason, make sure you take the proper steps to ensure a fun and safe ride. We created a beginner's guide to dog UTV safety below. For all your side x side needs, visit Bright PowerSports. We proudly serve those in Detroit, Michigan.
You can't just let your dog freely roam your UTV. She could injure herself by falling or jumping out of the moving side by side. Or she could interfere with your ability to safely drive by getting tangled up in your legs or trying to jump in your lap. You'll need to keep her secure somewhere and a crate is a great option.
If your dog has never been inside a crate before, your first step is getting him used to it. Introduce him slowly to the new experience and make it a positive one with treats and toys. After he is comfortable with the crate, get him used to the crate in motion on your side x side. Go for a slow and short ride. Slowly increase the time until your dog is a side by side pro!
When you put the crate on your UTV, you'll want to attach it securely. You'd be surprised how easily a crate can slide right off a side x side. All you need is to secure it with some tie downs.
Don't forget about the weather! For hot days, you'll want to make sure there is plenty of open-air ventilation to keep your dog cool. For cold days, you'll want to throw on a crate cover to trap in the heat.
When you bring along your dog, you'll also need to bring along certain supplies. There are a few necessities to pack. First, a water bowl. After all, romping around the backwoods is dehydrating. If you need to save space while packing your side by side, opt for a collapsible bowl. Second, you'll want a pet first aid kit. That way, you'll be able to address minor health issues.
Then there are items that aren't essential but can help improve your experience. Help your dog be more visible with an LED collar light. Protect his paws from tough terrain with booties. Get stickers out of his fur with a brush.
Sometimes you'll want to take your side x side out for an overnight trip. Your dog can still come! Just bring along the proper supplies. Pack along any medications. Bring plenty of their normal food brand (switching up brands can be hard on their digestive system). Pack their normal bed that has their scent on it (smelling their own scent will keep them more comfortable). It also never hurts to take a quick visit to the vet for a check-up. You don't want to uncover any issues in the woods far from medical help. With a little proactivity, you can take a vacation with your dog without any problems.
We hope you found our guide helpful! For all your powersports needs, visit Bright PowerSports. We offer a range of new and used ATVs for sale. PLUS! Nothing beats Bright's Certified Pre-Owned Service Protection Plan! Check out our exclusive 90 Day, 1,500 miles or 30 Hours (whichever comes first) Service Protection Plan you receive when you buy a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle from Bright PowerSports. We proudly serve those in Detroit, Lincoln Park, Wayne County, Oakland County, Livingston County, and Macomb, Michigan.
