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Tips for Taking Your Dog on a UTV Ride

Aug. 11 2021 Ownership Tips By Sky Powersports Lakeland

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Many dogs can enjoy a fun and safe side-by-side ride. But it takes some preparation and the right strategies to ensure a successful trail ride. Keep reading for tips on UTV riding with your dog. For more suggestions or to shop UTVs for sale, visit Sky Powersports Lakeland. Our dealership is based in Lakeland, Florida, and we also serve those in Tampa and Orlando.

Transporting Your Dog On a UTV

During the UTV Ride

It's unwise to let your dog wander your side-by-side while it is in motion. It's too easy for your dog to fall off and get injured or interfere with your ability to safely steer the UTV.

Instead, your dog should be safely in a crate. Be sure to use tie downs to keep the crate securely fastened to the UTV. Otherwise, it could slide off (even at low speeds).

Accounting for Weather

Don't forget to factor in the weather. If it's extra hot, for example, be sure the crate is well-ventilated and your dog has access to enough water.

Building a Comfort Level

Most dogs won't be able to go on a several hour UTV ride for their first adventure. It can be a scary experience for an animal, so it's important to build up your dog's comfort level.

Start with a calm and pleasant introduction to the crate on the side-by-side. Add treats or toys inside to help your dog associate it positively. Then, go on a short and slow ride. Slowly build up the ride lengths until your dog is comfortable with a standard UTV ride length.

Packing the UTV

When you bring your dog on a UTV ride, you will also need to bring some extra supplies:

  • A water bowl (a collapsible option works well if you are limited on space).
  • A pet first aid kit so you can handle minor medical emergencies.
  • Booties to protect your dog's feet from rough terrain.
  • A brush to more easily remove any stickers that cling to your dog's fur.

Preparing for a Longer Trip

Some UTV rides may be part of a longer vacation. Maybe you are going out of town to access a certain powersports park or collection of trails. Maybe the UTV ride will be a part of other adventures during a road trip. Whatever the situation, there are some extra steps to take if you want to bring along your dog.

First, pack the essentials:

  • Any medication your dog takes.
  • Your normal dog food (since changing up dog food can cause temporary digestive issues).
  • Your usual dog bed (if it has your dog's scent, it will make your dog feel more comfortable).

Second, maintain a routine. Try to keep meal times, bedtimes, and walk times as close to your normal schedule as possible. The stability helps keep pet stress levels lowered.

Ready to shop UTVs for sale? Explore the selection at Sky Powersports Lakeland. Check out the available side-by-sides online or stop by our dealership in Lakeland, Florida. We also proudly serve those in Tampa and Orlando, Florida.