Out & About with Tavo this Spring

YHC's Top Tips

Out & about with Tavo this spring

Is there anything better than getting outdoors in spring after a long winter? There’s nothing quite like those days getting longer, blue skies and the first blooms. And it’s made even better with your canine companion by your side.

To make the most of the season, a little bit of preparation can go a long way when it comes to adventures with your dog. Planning ahead, whether that’s a quick trip to the local park or a staycation by the coast, can help ensure your pet stays happy, healthy and calm. To help, we’ve gathered up our top tips for getting out and about with your dog.

GET PLANNING

With around 13.5 million dogs in the UK, more places are embracing dog visitors than ever before, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead to make sure you know the rules. For example, National Trust and historic estates often allow dogs on leads in grounds and gardens but not always inside buildings.

Checking ahead is important if you want to factor in a nice café stop or lunch location that’s dog friendly. According to The Royal Kennel Club there’s around 9,000 dog friendly places to eat in the UK. Websites such as www.dogfriendly.co.uk are a great resource for places to take your four-legged companion.
When planning where to go, it helps to consider your dog’s personality.

For example, are they anxious in new environments, overwhelmed by a lot of people and how do they react to other dogs? This might shape where and when you go and will end up with a calmer time for all.

Don’t forget to schedule the trip there too, including breaks if you’re travelling in a car for a long period. Your dog will need a chance to stretch and go to the toilet. Service stations might be packed full of things to make our lives more comfortable but not all have suitable dog spaces when it comes to pet toilet breaks.

PACK THE ESSENTIALS

Just like for us humans, packing up a few things for your dog can make the trip smoother and more comfortable. Pop fresh water and collapsible bowl in a bag, remember a lead, waste bags and treats. And a towel is a must if you’re going anywhere muddy, sandy or even a little wet.

CHOOSE A SAFE RESTRAINT FOR THE CAR

Making sure your dog is properly secured in the car is essential – not just for their safety, but for everyone travelling with you. In the event of a collision, an unrestrained pet can become a projectile, exerting a force of 30 to 60 times their body weight.

Did you know, it’s also a legal requirement? Rule 57 of the Highway Code states that dogs must be suitably restrained when travelling in a vehicle. Failing to do so could put lives at risk and leave you on the wrong side of the law.

Despite this, so many of us overlook safety. Research from Tavo Pets uncovered that 59% of motorists have driven with a dog unrestrained and, even more alarmingly, 26% of motorists with dogs in the UK allow their pet to travel with its head out the car window. A staggering 71% of dog owners who allow this, think the dog enjoys it and 70% let their dog put its head out the window to give it fresh air. Just under half (43%) think it puts the dog at ease and, most alarmingly, 48% don’t even consider the dog’s enjoyment!

When a dog travels with its head out the window of a car it’s at risk of being hit by anything airborne, such as flying debris, not to mention potential eye abrasions from the wind. If that car is involved in a collision, there’s even more danger to the dog.

The safest way to think about it is to secure your dog as carefully as you would a young child. You can get a crash-tested dog car seat, such as those from Tavo, which have been tested to child restraint standards. These seats are designed to combine safety and comfort, giving your pet a secure place to travel while offering you peace of mind that everyone in the vehicle is protected.

Get your dog used to the car

Many of us travel in the car with our dogs, but it can be unsettling for our much-loved pets, especially if it’s new to them. Adem Fehmi, Canine Behaviourist and Trainer, explains the best approach to take when it comes to getting your dog travel ready.

“However your dog gets into the car, take it slowly and reward calm behaviour. Car travel isn’t natural for dogs, so it’s important to show them there’s nothing to fear. Once your dog is confident getting in, practice securing them with your chosen restraint. Then introduce the engine and radio. When they’re comfortable, begin with short trips, gradually increasing the length over time.”

GO FOR ACCESSORIES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

There’s a wealth of products available for our dogs and it can seem overwhelming knowing if any of them actually make a difference. But there’s a few that can help us save time and make outings more convenient and comfortable. A treat pouch is one of these and great way to keep rewards to hand without needing to rummage around in a bag or pocket. Another is a comfortable harness. A lead is essential but there’s many different styles available and some will suit your dog more than others, so worth shopping around. Reflective gear is then a must if you’re going off the beaten track at dawn or dusk or even just into wooded areas – great for safety and peace of mind.

If you want to get out and about with your pup but walking is difficult for them – perhaps due to age or injury – then get them some wheels. Dog strollers are increasing in popularity and it’s easy to see why. They are a huge help for less mobile dogs, or even just those smaller breeds that can’t handle certain terrains for long. The Roscoe Stroller Frame from Tavo is one example. It’s compatible with two different pet car seats which keep dogs safe and comfortable when on the move, plus it looks great and is easy to manoeuvre for owners.

REWARDING GOOD BEHAVIOUR

After a wonderful trip out with your dog, it’s time to reward good behaviour and indulge them. It’s fun to spoil our pets but it’s also important as it helps reinforce positive behaviour, setting you up nicely for next time. Verbal praise is key but so are edible treats. You could look at creating a post-walk or trip out ritual that they become to recognise. Don’t forget to add in a chew or toys as this may help them wind down. Most of all, give them some of your time, as this is what they undoubtedly love the most. Grab a cuppa, get on the sofa and enjoy those rubs, scratches and strokes with your best friend this spring and beyond.

To keep the nation’s much-loved pets safe, Tavo has teamed up with TV Vet and animal welfare advocate Dr Scott Miller, and dog behaviourist and trainer, Adem Fehmi to launch the campaign, ‘Safer Inside’. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the danger dogs are in when they are not secured inside the car. Find out more here www.tavopets.com/uk/imagine-the-impact