How to Keep Your Dog Safe on Your UTV

Ready to take your UTV ride from good to great? Bring along your dog! Gain extra help with hunting. Enjoy the serenity of nature with your best friend by your side. Make memories with your four-legged pal. It's no wonder people take their dog along. We created the following guide for a successful trip. For all your side-by-side needs, visit Cool Springs Powersports. We proudly serve those in Franklin and Nashville, Tennessee.

How to Transport Your Dog

Letting your dog roam your side-by-side is a recipe for disaster. He could jump or fall out of the moving vehicle. Or he could try to worm his way onto your lap, which makes it hard for you to steer.

For your dog to ride safely on your UTV, you will need a crate. Use tie downs to secure it to the bed of your side-by-side. Even at slow speeds, a loose crate could slip right off.

Remember to take into account the weather as you ride your side-by-side. On a cold day, throw on a kennel cover to keep it warm. On a hot day, make sure there is plenty of ventilation of fresh air. Otherwise, it'll get stuffy and hot.

You'll need to build up your dog's comfort level with crate transportation before you take your UTV trip. Introduce her to the crate in a calm, happy way. Throw treats inside or play with a toy nearby to help her associate the crate with fun. Once she is comfortable with the crate, go on quick side-by-side rides around the neighborhood. Build up the speed and the length of the ride until you reach normal journey levels.

How to Pack Your UTV

A side-by-side trip requires supplies for your dog too! Start with the essentials. Take a water bowl so your dog can stay hydrated. A collapsible bowl is a space-saving option. Bring a pet first aid kit so you'll be equipped for minor health emergencies.

There are also items you can bring that aren't crucial but can improve the comfort of your UTV ride. An LED collar light helps you see your dog at night. Booties protect their feet from rugged terrain. A brush can help get out stickers and other items that cling to your dog's fur. You can also add a windshield to your side-by-side. It'll help block debris and wind to make the ride more enjoyable for you both.

How to Take an Extended Trip

Some days, all you need is a quick jaunt on your UTV. Other days, you want more time on your side-by-side. Good news is you can still take your dog on those vacations! But you will need to add a few more steps in your process.

First, consider taking your dog to the vet. You don't want to discover a health issue in the woods far from medical access. Plus, the stress of traveling can exacerbate health situations. Make sure your dog is healthy and able to travel.

Second, pack the necessary supplies. Bring along any medications, plenty of their normal food (as changing up their diet can cause digestive issues), and a bed that has their scent (to make them more comfortable).

Third, try to stick to your routine as much as possible. Aim to keep regular bedtimes and meal times. The consistency will help keep stress levels lower.

We hope you found our guide informative! For all your UTV needs, visit Cool Springs Powersports. Check out our supply of new and used side-by-side models. We also operate a service department to get your UTV running like new. We proudly serve those in Franklin, Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, and Dickson, Tennessee.