Days out with your dog

Taking your dog to summer events and festivals can add to the fun of a family day out – particularly if it’s an event featuring dog-themed attractions, such as The Game Fair at Blenheim Palace, Edition Dog Live in Coventry, Dogfest at Bristol, Yorkshire and Hertfordshire and Paws in the Park, Kent, where all manner of fun dog shows, canine activity zones and dog display teams are on offer.

However, rather than just rocking up at an event, canine experts agree that research, planning and preparation are essential to ensure a happy day out is had by all.

Veterinary charity PDSA advises: “If you’re planning on taking your dog to a festival, the first thing you need to do is make sure it’s dog friendly. Most festival websites will have this information readily available, so do remember to check. If you can’t find the information online, you could contact the festival organisers directly.”

Comfortable in a crowd?

It’s also important to consider how well your furry chum will cope in a festival environment.

Animed Direct says: “There will be thousands of people, big crowds, lots of loud noise, potentially very hot weather and all sorts of other stressors that may make your dog anxious or uncomfortable. You know your dog’s personality best, so consider whether they are well-socialised, unfazed by noise or crowds, and calm around unpredictable behaviour, to help you make the right call about whether to take your dog to a festival.”

If you’re keen for you dog to enjoy a big day out with you, vet and presenter Dr Paul Manktelow stresses the importance of ensuring they are well socialised. He says: “Under socialised dogs will quickly become overwhelmed which will actually worsen their anxiety around other dogs and people as well as increase the chances of dog-on-dog altercations. These events are only suited to dogs that are well socialised and are already comfortable and relaxed in busy environments.”

Gradual exposure can reduce anxiety and stress

To test the water on how well your canine companion will cope, Animal Friends recommends preparing them for the experience of a festival setting.

The pet insurer suggests: “You can do this by exposing your canine companion to crowds, loud music, and other stimulating situations in advance, to help them feel more comfortable on the day. To begin helping your dog get used to unfamiliar environments, you could visit the beach or park for a short time on a busy day, take them into town during peak shopping hours, and go to a friend’s house where there’s a small party or BBQ going on. Gradually increase your dog’s experience of these types of situations over time; remembering to reward them with treats and praise for calm behaviour. This preparation will help reduce anxiety and stress at the festival event, making life easier for you and your dog.”

Not every dog is a festival dog

If your dog struggles in the hustle and bustle of busy summer crowds, or if you have a particularly nervous or reactive dog, the best decision is to leave them at home (ideally for no more than four hours), or with a trusted friend.

PDSA adds: “You’ll need to think about whether your dog is going to enjoy the festival. Some dogs love big events with lots of people and other doggies, but others find them overwhelming or become over-excited in crowded settings. If you think your doggy might find it a bit too much, it might be best to give them a quiet day at home instead.”

Fact-finding and planning your day

Before you set off, make sure you know what facilities are available at the location.

PDSA advises: “Once you’ve decided whether your dog will enjoy the event, it’s a good idea to check with the festival organisers to see if they have poo bins, places to refill your dog’s water bowl, shaded areas, and quiet places away from the hustle and bustle. Many dog friendly festivals provide access to lots of things your dog may need on the day, such as drinking water, shade, and an on-site vet. However, this isn’t always the case, so it’s good to think ahead to make sure you’ve got your furry friend’s needs covered throughout the day.”

Dr Manktelow adds: “When booking a dog friendly event, take a look at what is on, some parts of the event could be a bit overwhelming for your dog, especially the noisy ones. Look at the event maps and the timing of the events and plan your day accordingly.”

And, as the British weather can be notoriously unpredictable, he recommends checking the forecast too: “Check the weather before you set off and pack for it accordingly. In the summer months sunscreen and fresh water are a must. Also check for rain since a lot of dogs aren’t a fan!”

Ensuring your dog is in good health is also vital. Dr Manktelow advises: “These events often have lots of dogs sharing the same space, so it is important to ensure your dog is protected from disease as well as preventing the spread of disease to other dogs around them. Your dog should be up to date with their vaccinations and have received their parasite treatment. If your dog is unwell then it’s best to stay away, especially with any gastrointestinal signs like vomiting or diarrhoea, or respiratory signs like coughing.”

Your dog’s day out kit

While humans are advised to take sunscreen, sunhats, water and umbrellas to outdoor events, our canine chums also need their very own kit to ensure they have everything they need for the day. PDSA has compiled this handy kit list:

• A water bowl and water: Consider a travel water bowl that’s easy to carry.
• Dog-safe sunscreen: It’s important to apply sunscreen regularly to any thin haired/hairless areas on your pet, and remember to do a small patch test to check for sensitivities before applying it fully.
• Collar and tags: Legally your dog needs to wear a collar and tag – if you’re separated at a festival, it will help to reunite you faster!
• A sturdy lead: Make sure you have a strong lead for your dog that can’t be broken easily.
• A spare towel: Even in the height of summer, you can never guarantee British weather! Bring a spare towel to dry your muddy pup if it rains.
• A car crate or doggy seatbelt: Remember to make sure your dog is safe and secure when you travel.
• Poo bags: An essential when you’re out and about! How pickup-able is your dog’s poo?
• Your dog’s food/treats: It’s best to stick to your dog’s normal mealtimes as much as possible but having a few tasty treats to reward your pet during the day will help keep their experience positive.

Keep a close eye at all times

While you’re having a good time, it’s essential to keep tabs on your canine pal, particularly if there’s lots of tasty human food on offer. Dr Manktelow says: “Watch your dog closely around food areas to avoid them snaffling dropped food from the ground or getting into squabbles with other hungry mouths.”

PDSA comments: “Festivals are great fun, but there can also be some hazards for our four-legged friends. Litter in particular can be a problem at festivals, so it’s important to keep an eye on your dog and make sure that they’re not munching on anything they shouldn’t.”

Keeping your dog on a short lead to avoid leash snarl-ups is also important. Dr Manktelow adds: “These events can be really exciting for your dog, so watch out for your dog getting tangled on long leashes. Even if your dog has the best recall on the planet, never take the risk of going off lead at an event unless they are in a controlled and safe environment.”

PDSA also points out other key things your dog needs you to pay attention to:

• PROTECT YOUR PUP FROM THE SUN Part of the festival fun is spending the day outdoors, so it’s crucial to protect your dog from the heat, especially on hot days. Keep your dog out of sun during the hottest part of the day, and ensure that they’re regularly topped up with sunscreen to protect their skin. Offer them plenty of water throughout the day – and remember to learn the signs that your dog is getting too hot or developing heatstroke. Burgess in-house vet, Dr Suzanne Moyes, outlines everything you need to know about heatstroke including the signs to watch out for and what actions to take here >>
• BE CAUTIOUS OF OTHER DOGGIES Ask other owners before letting your dog approach theirs – your dog may be friendly, but you can’t always guarantee they will get along with every canine, especially if you’re in a noisy, busy situation. If either dog shows any signs of stress, take your pet away to help prevent any aggressive or stressful situations.
• KEEP AWAY FROM LOUD MUSIC Lots of festivals have loud music, but it’s important to consider your pup by keeping them a good distance away from the speakers. Their ears are far more sensitive than ours, so loud music can not only stress them out, but it can also be potentially painful and damaging to their hearing.
• KNOW THE SIGNS OF STRESS It’s important to be able to understand your dog’s body language so you can tell whether your dog is having as much fun as you are. Knowing the signs that your doggy may be stressed – such as licking their lips, yawning and turning their gaze away – can help you recognise when it’s time to find a quiet area for your pup to calm down.

From dog-themed festivals to fundraisers, there are lots of events for dog lovers to attend throughout the year, including All About Dogs, Battersea’s Muddy Dog Challenge, DogFest, Paws in the Park, and the Dog Lovers Festival. Find out more >>

*** Follow these practical, sensible guidelines from DogFest to ensure both canines and humans have an enjoyable time at summer events ***

• Ensure your dog(s) are transported in a safe secure environment. Follow the advice of your vet or major charities and the Highway Code that states they should be either secured with a harness, behind a dog guard or in a suitable carrier. Whilst your dog might like hanging out of the car window it’s not a safe way to travel. The same applies if your car is a convertible.
• Always have fresh water available for your dog in your car and bring some into the event with you.
• Never leave your dog unattended in the car. Even if the weather might feel OK, it only takes a few minutes for the temperature to become dangerously hot. Dogs die in hot cars.
• How’s your dog’s health? If they’re getting old, struggling to walk very far consider whether it’s appropriate for them to attend and, if they do, take advantage of places for them to rest and relax.
• Is your dog well socialised with other dogs or strangers? If not, or they are anxious/ fearful around other dogs or people then please don’t bring them to DogFest – they won’t enjoy it.
• Legally, dogs should have a collar with a tag displaying their owner’s name and up to date contact details.
• Please ensure your dog is up to date with their annual vaccinations. If your dog is unwell and/or suffering with any medical conditions requiring medication or that pose a risk to other dogs they should definitely not be attending.
• Please keep an eye on the weather forecast prior to arrival. What your dog can cope with will depend on their age, breed, health and conditions on the day. Some dogs are more prone (to heatstroke) than others – those who are old, young, overweight, with thick coats or with short faces such as Pugs and French Bulldogs. Dogs on some types of medication are also more at risk.
• If you want your dog to take part in our ‘Have-A-Go activities’, it’s your responsibility to ensure they are fit and able to take part. Please don’t ask your dog to do things it doesn’t want to and be aware some dogs will do activities despite the risk to their health as they are driven by natural behaviour. Not all dogs will enjoy all the activities.
• Make sure you clean up after your dog. Failing to pick up is irresponsible and potentially dangerous to young children and other animals.
• Extendable dog leads aren’t a good idea. Everything gets tangled up. Dogs are also much more difficult to control if they are 20 feet out in front!
• Dogs should not be dressed up in costumes. These can be uncomfortable, hot and restrictive for the dogs wearing them and can cause anxiety and confusion to other dogs seeing them.
• The welfare of your dog and their behaviour is your responsibility, and they must not be left unattended at any time.

MORE HELPFUL ADVICE ON CARING FOR YOUR DOG THIS SUMMER

• Check out our 10-point guide to making travelling in the car with your dog a positive, happy experience this summer >>
• From planning your road trip (comfort, safety, and plenty of pitstops) to your location (are there dog-friendly beaches and places to visit nearby?)  find out how to have a happy holiday with your dog >>
• Fancy going wild in the country with your canine chum this summer? Before you set off to hike up hilltops, tackle forest trails or power along coastal paths, make sure you’re both well prepared for outdoor adventures >>
• From buddying up with pet-owning friends to share holiday care duties, to a traditional boarding kennels or cattery, or even hiring a pet sitter to look after your four-legged friends in the comfort of their own home – find out which holiday care option is best for your pets >>

Every dog deserves a delicious, nutritious dinner that’s just right for them

At Burgess, all our high-quality recipes have been formulated with vets and nutritionists. This ensures they contain the right balance of vitamins and minerals to help keep your dog happy and healthy. 

Burgess Pet Care is a British, family-owned company and, whichever variety you choose, you can be sure of excellent quality and superior taste – from puppy to adult and senior. We’ve also developed foods to meet the specific nutritional needs of sporting and working dogs, Greyhounds and Lurchers and dogs with sensitivities.  

GOOD TO KNOW

• COMPLETE NUTRITION Each of the recipes in the Burgess Dog Food range are complete, providing all the nutrients dogs require in the right proportions.
• PORTION CONTROL With dry food, it’s easy to measure out the right sized portion to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.
• HEALTHY AND SAFE The thorough cooking process ensures that any harmful bacteria, such as salmonella, and viruses are destroyed, and the dry food stays fresh inside the pack.
• TEETH FRIENDLY Dry dog food has the added benefit of exercising your dog’s chewing muscles and provides a mild cleaning effect on the teeth.
• MADE IN BRITAIN Crafted at Burgess Pet Care’s own factory in the heart of Yorkshire, Burgess Dog Food contains high-quality ingredients that meet stringent specifications, locally sourced wherever possible to support British farmers.

FIND OUT MORE about what nutrition your dog needs to be healthy and happy throughout their life with our comprehensive DOG & PUPPY FEEDING GUIDE >>

NEED MORE ADVICE? If you’re at all unsure about the best way to feed your dog or have any concerns about specific nutritional requirements at different times of their life, ask your local veterinary practice for advice. You can also call our expert team on 44 (0)0800 413 969 who’ll be happy to help. They’re available 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can use our online form to get in touch.

Is your dog a Burgess dog? Join the Burgess Pet Club for exclusive offers and rewards.

DOG DAYS From puppy to adolescent, through to adult and senior, as your dog goes through different stages, their exercise and nutrition needs change. Find out how to help them stay happy and healthy every day of their lives...

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