A Guide to Safe, Comfortable, and Fun Adventures!
June 16, 2025 – Written by NOCO Humane volunteer, Stephanie Ray
Summertime means adventure time with your four-legged sidekick. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, a local park, or a weekend getaway with friends or family- ensuring your dog’s safety, comfort, and enjoyment is key. Let us help you prepare for a stress-free adventure that both you and your pup will love!
Pre-Trip Preparation: Setting Up for Success
To ensure you have everything your dog might need, here is a list of common essentials:
- Food & Treats: Bring enough of their regular food to avoid stomach issues if they’re receiving lots of treats.
- Water & Collapsible Bowl: Keep your dog hydrated! Pack plenty of water that will remain no warmer than room temperature. A standard rule of thumb for water intake: one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. If your dog weighs 50lbs, they will need about 50 ounces (roughly 1.5 liters) of water per day. In hot weather or during physical activity, we recommend bringing even more than that. Better safe than sorry!
- Leash & Harness: A sturdy leash and harness are crucial for control and safety. Check out our blog post on fitting your dog for a harness.
- Waste Bags: Always clean up after your dog. If you’re out in nature or enjoying a scenic hike, leaving no trace when it comes to dog feces is important for health and environmental safety.
- First Aid Kit: Click here for a dog first-aid checklist
- Comfort Items: A favorite toy, blanket, or enrichment item can provide reassurance in new environments, not to mention help prevent boredom during long car rides.
Keeping Your Dog Safe & Comfortable
- Secure Your Dog in the Car: Use a crash-tested harness or crate to keep your dog safe during transit.
- Avoid Leaving Your Dog in the Car: During warm months, NEVER leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle, even for a short time, as temperatures can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke.
- Update Identification: Ensure your dog’s ID tags and microchip information are current in case they get lost.
- Plan for Breaks: Schedule regular stops every 2–3 hours to allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and stay comfortable. Look for pet-friendly rest areas or parks along your route.
- Consult with Your Veterinarian: If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s comfort and safety as you prepare for a trip, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s needs are met.
- Signs your dog needs a break: Watch for signs and symptoms that may indicate your dog is overly tired or stressed. Some examples include excessive panting or drooling, lethargy or reluctance to move, whining or excessive barking. If you notice any of these signs, its best to take a break in a shaded area or cool area, offer water, and allow your dog to rest/decompress.
Dog-Friendly Day Trip Ideas in Northern Colorado
For more low-key day trips, check out this list of local areas! Make sure you are up to speed on each location’s regulations and leash laws to ensure safety for all.
Fort Collins:
- Explore Spring Canyon Dog Park with its fun tunnels and pond.
- Don’t miss the Riverbend Ponds Natural Area for scenic trails along the Poudre River.
- Twin Silo Dog Park: A one-acre, fenced-in park with a separate area for small and shy dogs.
- Soft Gold Dog Park: A small and friendly off-leash area with grassy and shady spots for your dog to run
Loveland:
- Visit Boyd Lake State Park, where dogs are welcome on leashes, and enjoy the beautiful lake views.
- Devil’s Backbone Open Space, a stunning natural area with moderate trails and great views. Dogs must be on leash.
Windsor:
- Windsor Lake Dog Park features a designated swimming area for dogs, allowing your pup to cool off and play in the water.
- Eastman Park & Poudre River Trail Access. Leashed dogs are welcome in this lovely park and along the trail.
Greeley:
- Check out Island Grove Regional Park, offering open spaces and walking paths suitable for dogs.
- Rover Run Dog Park, a large, fully fenced dog park with water spigots and separate areas for small dogs. Great for off-leash zoomies!
- Glenmere Park, a pretty and shaded park with lots of walking paths. Keep dogs on leash and enjoy the lake vibes.
Before heading out, keep a few final tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable day trip with your dog. First, know your dog’s limits—not all dogs are built for long hikes or extended outings, so watch their behavior and comfort closely. Hydration is also essential, especially in warm weather, so always have plenty of fresh water on hand. Be sure to respect local wildlife and fellow visitors by keeping your dog on a leash and staying aware of your surroundings. With a little preparation and attentiveness, your adventure can be a fun and memorable experience for both of you.
