A cottage vacation with your beloved dog can be a wonderful experience, full of adventure and quality time together. In many parts of Canada and elsewhere in the world, it’s the quintessential summer experience. However, ensuring your dog’s safety and well-being should be a top priority during these getaways.
We are getting ready to go to my parent’s cottage for the first time in a couple of years. While Willow has been there a number of times, Sienna has only been a few times. Before, there wasn’t much danger for her because she was mostly happy to lie on her bed or stay inside, but she has gained so much more confidence now that we also need to be vigilant with her.
In this post, we will explore ten essential cottage safety tips that will help keep your furry friend happy and secure throughout your vacation. By implementing these guidelines, you can create a safe environment where your dog can thrive and enjoy the cottage experience to the fullest.
Also, see our post on Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Summer Heat for more tips on summer vacation safety.
1) Secure the Cottage Perimeter
One of the first steps in ensuring your dog’s safety is to secure the cottage perimeter. Especially if the cottage is a new environment, there are a lot of interesting distractions and unfamiliar smells. It’s too easy for even a well-behaved dog to wander off and get lost. There are too many “Lost Dog” posters in cottage country.
Install a sturdy fence or use gates to prevent your dog from wandering off into unfamiliar territory. This will provide them with a designated and secure space to roam and play freely. If fencing is not an option, consider using a long line for the duration of your stay.
Know the limits of your dog’s recall and be prepared with emergency recall tactics. For example, Willow can be distracted from almost anything by shouting “Bacon!”. Another emergency tactic we have used in the past is to start the car and drive a few feet. Your dog should recognize the sound of your vehicle and come running – they won’t want to be left behind!
2) Remove Potential Hazards
Take the time to carefully inspect the cottage and remove any potential hazards. Store cleaning products, chemicals, and medications securely out of your dog’s reach. Keep an eye out for toxic plants in the surroundings and ensure that there are no sharp objects or loose wires that could pose a danger to your furry friend.
3) Ensure Proper Supervision
While it’s tempting to let your dog explore on their own, proper supervision is essential. Be mindful of your dog’s whereabouts and activities, especially outdoors. This will help prevent accidents, keep them away from potential dangers, and allow you to address any issues promptly.
4) Provide a Safe Outdoor Space
Create a safe outdoor space within the cottage premises where your dog can enjoy fresh air and playtime. Ensure there is adequate shade to protect them from the sun, provide lots of fresh water, and establish secure boundaries to prevent them from wandering off or encountering hazards.
Since fencing the parameter of the cottage property would be extremely costly and time-consuming, we opted to purchase a few additional x-pens (basically movable fencing for dogs) that we can attach together to make a large pen. We set these up on one side of the back deck to allow the dog’s ample room and space to do their business or play without needing to be on a long line or leash at all times.
5) Practice Tick Prevention
Ticks can be a concern in wooded or grassy areas. Protect your dog by using tick preventatives recommended by your veterinarian. Regularly check your dog for ticks, especially after outdoor activities, and promptly remove any you find. Don’t forget to check their entire body, including their ears and even between their paw pads. Make sure you have tweezers or a tick remover handy to deal with any potential pests.
If possible, maintaining a tick-free environment will help safeguard your dog’s health.
6) Secure Access to Water
Water safety is crucial, particularly if your cottage has a swimming pool, lake, or other bodies of water nearby. Always supervise your dog around water, and consider using a life jacket to provide an extra layer of protection. Secure access points to prevent unsupervised entry and potential accidents.
Make sure that your dog has and knows easy ways to get out of the lake. For some dogs, this might mean building a ramp or stairs. Our old dog, Kimo, even taught himself to climb the ladder instead of swimming to the shore 30 feet away.
Watch your dog carefully for signs of water toxicity. Too much water at once (swimming or drinking) can lead to water toxicity. Symptoms can include nausea, dilated pupils, lethargy, and light gum colour. If you suspect water toxicity, seek veterinary assistance immediately
7) Provide Proper Identification
Ensure your dog has proper identification, such as an ID tag with your contact information, and consider microchipping them if they aren’t already. In the event that your dog gets lost or accidentally wanders off, proper identification will greatly increase the chances of a safe and swift reunion.
8) Plan for Emergencies
Prepare for unexpected situations by creating a well-stocked first aid kit specifically for your dog. Include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications. You may also want to consider including a muzzle in your kit, as a dog in distress may display unpredictable and out-of-character behaviours. The most important thing in an emergency is that everyone stays as safe as possible.
Additionally, keep important contact numbers, including your veterinarian’s information and the closest emergency veterinarian, easily accessible.
9) Maintain a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, even during vacations. Stick to their regular feeding, exercise, and sleep schedules as much as possible. Maintaining a familiar routine will provide a sense of security and help your dog feel more comfortable in the new environment.
Consider bringing their favourite dog bed or blanket with you to the cottage to give additional familiarity, and make sure that your dog gets lots of opportunities to rest during your vacation.
10) Stay Updated on Vaccinations and Health Check-ups
Prioritize your dog’s health by ensuring their vaccinations are up to date before embarking on your cottage adventure. Schedule a visit to your veterinarian for a health check-up and any necessary vaccinations. Keeping your dog in good health is essential for its overall well-being and safety.
Conclusion
When planning a cottage vacation with your dog, never overlook the importance of comprehensive safety measures. From preventing ticks to prioritizing water safety, these precautions will provide a secure environment for your beloved pet. By implementing these strategies, you can relax and enjoy a worry-free getaway while ensuring your dog’s health and happiness.
We hope this post has equipped you with valuable insights into cottage safety for dogs. If you have any additional tips or experiences to share, we would love to hear from you in the comments section below. For more information and products related to tick prevention and water safety, please visit our recommended resources.
Remember, a safe and enjoyable cottage vacation is within reach when you prioritize your dog’s well-being and take the necessary precautions for their safety.
We have not been on a cottage vacation with our dogs (yet), but it is possible we’ll do it one day. Loosing a dog while traveling would be a terrible nightmare. This is great and important advice.