If you and your dog are travel buddies then you’ll want to read on…Phoebe Mason shares tips on travelling with your dog and how to prepare. She takes her companion on most hikes and adventures, including in her camper van and on her paddle-board!
What do you enjoy most about the outdoors ?
It’s great for your mental health! Nothing can beat getting some fresh air, especially after a stressful week. I’m a huge water baby, so I’m usually on a beach or on my paddle-board somewhere.
Why did you join Outdoor Adventure Girls?
I wanted to meet like-minded people with similar interests, and I found this really hard during my typical day to day life, especially over the pandemic period.
What are the benefits of being a moderator?
I wanted to build my confidence and really push myself out of my comfort zone, and I definitely have, mainly due to becoming a moderator! It’s a community I feel really supported by and since joining the group, I’ve met some fantastic friends that I would have never met otherwise. I’d encourage anyone worried about attending a meetup, to just do it, every single person I’ve met so far has been so lovely and so welcoming.
What do I do for work?
I work in marketing and social media for a pet foods brand.
Do you have a walking companion?
My rescue dog, Shaxx, is my biggest adventure partner, he’s a Rhodesian Ridgeback x Staffie that is always up for a hike. The only downside is when we camp overnight in the camper van he takes up all the bed space!
What are your top 5 tips for travelling with your dog?
- Be prepared: bring extra water + a water bowl, some vet wrap just in case, and pop a towel in the car for those muddy paws on the way home.
- Make sure their ID tag is up to date; you never know what could happen, so make sure the contact details on it are correct.
- Bring a spare blanket if you’re camping; if your dog is anything like Shaxx, they’ll want their own blanket to cuddle up in.
- Don’t forget some tasty snacks for your pooch. I can never resist those big puppy eyes staring at me when I’m enjoying my snack, so it’s always handy to have some dog treats in your bag.
- Download a map/GPS app; sometimes trails are not dog friendly due to wildlife so having easy access to a map helps identify an alternative route.
Have you got any adventures lined up?
I love travelling to new places. Earlier this year I went to Copenhagen, and coming up in the next few weeks I’m heading to Croatia, followed by Iceland in November, which is a trip I’m incredibly excited for!
