Love the outdoors?
Own a pet?
There are many ways you can take your four-legged pals along with you to achieve maximum enjoyment for everyone involved. Venku features a special filter built into our listings so you can easily find pet-friendly outdoor adventure perfectly suited to you and your companion.
General Tips
Some parks and campgrounds require pet-owners to bring proof of vaccination (rabies is the big one!). It’s a good idea to research what certification you’ll need to have with you just to make sure all requirements are met. Another item to note: if you do bring your pet, you’ll need to plan on involving them in whatever activities you do. Many places allow pets, but don’t allow pet-owners to leave animals alone for extended periods of time.
Your outdoor adventure kit with a pet should include a bowl, water and food. If you’re hiking or backpacking, your dog can actually carry their own gear! Check out this cool dog pack that is sure to lighten your load while you’re out on the trail with your four-legged companion (p.s. the reviews feature some adorable pups in their packs).
And it’s always a good idea to follow the Leave No Trace principles with your pet when recreating in the outdoors. This article outlines some of the reasons why it’s important to pack out your dog’s waste. According to the CDC, or Center for Disease Control, one day’s worth of dog waste can contain several billion fecal bacteria along with Giardia, hookworm, and tapeworms. If pet waste reaches waterways, it can be harmful to other animals, wildlife, and even humans. Some places provide bags for you, but it’s a good idea to bring your own as well.
Hiking
Start slow! Some breeds aren’t suited for long hikes, so take special consideration of their ability and make sure you allow frequent breaks, providing water and food if needed. Aren’t sure which breeds are best for hiking? This list by the American Kennel Club names a few of the best breeds to take with you on the trail.
If you’re reading this and are a cat-lover…you can take your furry feline on outdoor adventure too! Outsider Erin Hansen tested this backpack with her kitty and reports that they’ve enjoyed many hikes together.
Camping
Many areas welcome camping with canine friends…all it takes is some planning! Rules do vary from location to location, depending on who manages the grounds and what restrictions they must follow, so it’s a good idea to brush up on the requirements before heading out. Campgrounds almost universally require that dogs remain on leashes of no longer than 6 feet, so you should always have a leash on-hand. This option by Ruffwear provides a comfortable leash with a quick-restraint loop that makes it easy for you to quickly control your dog…before they barge in, uninvited, to your next-door neighbor’s hot dog roast. For the areas where you don’t have to have a leash, a safety beacon ensures that you know where your pup is at all times.
Hunting
Dogs have accompanied mankind on hunts for almost 20,000 years. Don’t believe it?! Check out this brief (but excellent) write-up on the history of the hunting dog, which includes a primer on which breed of dog is best for which pursuit, and how to start training. It’s also important to remember some key safety tips to keep man’s best friend safe while out on the hunt. Read here for some practical advice to protect your dog from the elements (and other hunters) while ensuring a successful day in the outdoors.
Water-sports
You’ve probably seen the video of the skateboarding dog but did you know dog surfing is a legitimate sport that started on the west coast and has since taken off internationally? This round up of 2018’s “Absolute Best Surfing Dogs” inspires readers with ‘tails’ of hard-work, dedication and amusing background on the unlikely surf champions featured in the article.
How do you enjoy the outdoors with your doggo? Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and share your photos with hashtag #OutsiderDogs.
Image credit: @destinyvsyou
Species
First and foremost, there are two species of crappie. The white crappie is found in the northern and central states of the US. If you are anywhere from Ontario to the Dakotas down to Texas you’ll be targeting white crappie. Black crappie also known as speckled crappie or specks are found along the east coast from Florida and Louisiana to Maine.