International travel may be closed, but as restrictions ease across the country, we suspect Kiwis will be hitching up the caravan, packing up the family, grabbing our four-legged friends and hitting the road.
One of the most magical aspects of travelling New Zealand is the freedom to have your dog along for the ride, after all, they are the most important member of the family, right?
We spoke to Dean Richardson, Nutrition and Scientific Communications Advisor for premium dog nutrition brand, Eukanuba about what pet owners need to know before they hit the road with their dog this summer.
Know Where You Can Take Your Dog
Different areas have different rules on whether you can bring your dog or not. Some parks, trails and bushland allow dogs, others do not. It’s important to do your research beforehand so you know that you can bring your best mate with you.
The Department Of Conservation website is a great resource to check walking tracks and campsites that are dog-friendly and plan your getaway.
Keep Them Active and Make Them Part of the Adventure!
Depending on your dog’s breed and age, they may be used to being quite active during the day. Try to keep to a regular routine and allow them to explore the great outdoors as much as possible throughout your trip. This includes stopping the car for regular breaks and enjoying hiking and walking tracks.
Great hiking and walking trails to enjoy with your dog include:
- Pinnacles Track – This mountain range in the North Island is a spectacular loop and has excellent views of Palliser Bay and Lake Onoke. There are various walks available so it’s a great option for the whole family.
- Ahuriri Estuary Walking Track – Located in the Hawkes Bay region, this track is a picturesque walk full of wading birds, fish, mud dwellers and aquatic plant life.
- Derek Turnball Track – Just a short drive from Invercargill, this track is well gravelled and graded, with lots of birdlife.
- Surat Bay Beach Walk – An easy short walk that runs parallel to the Surat Bay Beach and weaves through sand dunes.
Refuelling After An Active Day is Important, Not Just For You!
We all know the feeling after a big day of hiking and travelling, we need to refuel with a big dinner. The same goes for our dogs. Dogs have very specific nutritional requirements that are different to ours, so it’s important to keep your dog on their usual diet even when travelling.
A premium dog-food such as Eukanuba is a great option for active dogs on the go. Its unique formulation is designed to support energy needs of active dogs and is available as a nutritious kibble which makes it perfect for travelling.
Temperature Checks
While we love warm summer days, it’s important to ensure the weather is suitable for your dog before embarking on a long hike or walk. Dogs cannot sweat like us and run the risk of overheating or overexerting themselves during hot weather.
Check the weather forecast before you leave for your walk, pack lots of fresh, cool water and a collapsible bowl for your dog so they’re able to hydrate throughout the day.
First Aid for Your Dog
When we’re travelling with our dogs, it’s important to be aware of their surrounds to ensure they do not hurt themselves or are bitten by any insects, snakes or spiders. While this sounds daunting, it can be easily managed by researching the area you’re travelling to so you’re aware of the local wildlife and potential risks, locate your closest vet clinic should you need to access it, and keep your dog close on a leash when you’re out and about.
Have Fun!
While a little additional preparation is needed to ensure your dog-friendly holiday is a success, you’ll be sure to build life-long memories of you and your four-legged friend. Enjoy the time together!
Eukanuba is a science-based dog food brand designed for active dogs. Their premium formulation contains ingredients that are nutritionally optimised to support the energy requirements of active dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes.
For more information visit www.eukanuba.com/nz.
