Discussing How And Why Your Dogs Can Participate In Tailgating During Football Season
Fall is finally here! With the Fall season comes the football season. Being one of America’s most popular and beloved sports, it’s hard not to get excited. But, you’re not the only one who can enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of a live football game. Your dog can get in on the action too! However, there are plenty of do’s and don’ts when it comes to tailgating at a football game with your furry friend. This article will cover everything you should and shouldn’t do while tailgating with your dog in order to keep them safe and happy. Keep reading to learn more!
Know Your Dog And Their Limits
You know your dog better than anyone. So, you should readily be able to assess and determine if your dog is well suited for a tailgating environment. Some dogs simply don’t do well in crowds or around strangers which can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. Be conscious and considerate to how your dog feels and reacts to this kind of environment. If your dog is playful and easy going around strangers, then they will do fine at a football tailgating event. It’s also important to remember that your furry best friend is still a dog and may not have the same amount of stamina or energy as you to party all day and/or night. Make sure they have the option to take a nap or relax somewhere (such as a dog bed or large pillow in your car, truck, or camper). Even our dogs need an occasional break from the fun and excitement of a tailgating party.
Be Prepared
One of the most important things you can do when taking your dog tailgating (or any other public place) is to be prepared. Bringing the essentials with you will keep your dog happy and well entertained during the tailgating festivities. It may sound like common sense to most responsible pet owners, but bringing things like dog food, fresh water, and bowls is an absolute must. It’s also a good idea to bring some toys for your dog to play with as well as a blanket or dog bed for them to relax in. Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand so you can be more prepared to keep your dog comfortable. If it’s going to be a hot day, bring something to help keep your dog cool such as a doggie pool or an electric fan. If it’s going to be a cold and/or rainy day, bring something to keep them warm (doggy coat or space heater) and something to keep them dry (umbrella, canopy, doggy raincoat, etc.). You should also bring a leash so you can occasionally walk them and/or keep them close to you. Poop bags are also highly recommended for easy clean up. Your dog can and will have a great time tailgating as long as you come fully prepared and ready to accommodate them. To learn more about what essentials to bring for your dog at a tailgating event, check out the American Kennel Club for more information.
Be Responsible
It goes without saying, but it’s your duty (as a responsible pet owner) to keep your dog happy, healthy, and safe. It’s easy to forget or neglect this responsibility during all of the excitement and commotion that occurs at a football tailgating party. However, your dog depends on you to keep them healthy and safe. When at a tailgating event, always be sure to keep an eye on your dog and never let them out of your sight. With all of the strange smells, sounds, and crowds of people, it can be easy for your dog to get lost. Keep them close and out of trouble. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog away from obnoxious people and/or overwhelming situations. Many people have a habit of drinking too much at tailgating events and acting like fools. Your dog shouldn’t be subjected to people while in this state as they can be irrational and unpredictable. Tailgating is also known for its variety of food and alcoholic drinks. Your dog shouldn’t be consuming either of these things. Never let someone else feed your dog human food while tailgating as human foods are typically not healthy for dogs. Lastly, if your dog poops, pick it up. Leaving dog poop lying around is not only irresponsible, it’s also unhygienic. To learn more about what foods your dog should and shouldn’t be eating, check out our previous article entitled Pet Food & Pets: Toxic Or Safe?
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