Keeping Your Dog Safe in a UTV

Make your next UTV ride better by bringing along your four-legged best friend! With the right preparation, dogs can safely ride on your side by side. Here at Peak Powersports, we care about UTV safety. That's why we created the following guide to a successful sxs trip with your dog below. If you have any questions or need any help with your vehicle, visit our dealership. We proudly serve those in Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming.

Dog Safety

You may let your dog ride freely in your car, but that's a dangerous approach when it comes to your sxs. He could harm himself by falling out of the side by side while it's in motion. Or he could interfere with your ability to drive, which puts you both at risk. You'll need to acquire a crate for your dog to ride in. Tie downs are helpful for securing the crate to your UTV bed. Even when you drive slow, a loose crate could still slide off.

Before you hit the road, you'll want to look at the weather forecast. Part of pet safety means preparing your dog for the effects of weather. If the temperatures are low, use a kennel cover to help her stay warm. If the temperatures are high, make sure there's plenty of ventilation of fresh air to avoid the crate getting stuffy.

If your dog has never ridden on your UTV before, you'll want to set him up for a successful ride. Start by helping him feel comfortable with the crate. Put treats inside or play with a toy near it to help teach him that the crate is fun and not to be feared. Once he's a crate pro, you'll want to take short side by side rides. As he becomes comfortable with traveling, you can take longer and longer rides.

Packing Your UTV

Side by side safety involves bringing along the right gear and this includes gear for your dog! A water bowl helps her stay hydrated, especially on hot days or when you are doing plenty of walking. If you need to save space, consider a collapsible bowl. Be prepared to handle pet safety emergencies by bringing along a pet first aid kit. It can help you solve minor health issues and address major ones until you can get to the vet.

There are a few accessories that aren't crucial for dog safety but can make the trip better for you both. Get an LED collar light so you can more easily see her when the sun starts to set. Give her booties to protect her paws from the harsh terrain. Take along a brush to easily remove any stickers that cling to her fur as you explore the brush.

Extended Trip

If you want to go on a longer sxs trip, you can still bring your bud! But you will want to take him to the vet first. Health issues can get exacerbated with the stress of travel and you don't want to be stuck in the woods with your pet feeling ill. As you pack, remember to bring plenty of dog food and a bed. Finally, try to stick to their normal feeding and walking routine as much as possible. The regularity helps lower pet stress levels.

A key part of UTV safety is ensuring all the passengers are ready for a safe and comfortable trip. We hope you found these tips helpful! For all your side by side needs, visit Peak Powersports. We proudly serve those in Sheridan and Buffalo, Wyoming. Stop by today!