Dog Bug Out Bag Design
Most people consider their pets, especially dogs, as a part of their family. And I do not think most would hesitate in bringing their dog with them during an emergency. In a survival situation, a dog can bring many benefits to the group such as security and companionship. We discuss pros, cons, and the best survival dogs in this article.
Is your dog as prepared to bug out as you are? Specifically, do they have a bug out bag? If your dog is a part of the family and you plan on bringing them along, here is a quick guide to building your own Doggy Bug Out Bag.
Quick Navigation
It is important to remember that when bugging out, especially on foot, both you and your dog are going to be burning more calories than normal. In some cases, double the amount. The amount of food you pack will partially depend on if your dog is primarily an indoor dog or an outside, hunting dog.
When it comes to what kind of food to pack, there are basically three types. Dry, wet (canned), and dehydrated.
Dehydrated food will take up the least amount of space but will require additional water. Dehydrated food is also going to be one of the more expensive options.
Canned food can be cheaper, and most dogs seem to find it very tasty. The biggest downfall of canned food is that it is heavy. It would be difficult to carry enough canned food to feed a dog for more than a few days. But even if you do not pack canned food, you should throw in a can opener just in case.
Dry food will need an airtight container but it is lightweight and affordable. There are more container options available for this type and dry food is probably already a part of your dog’s diet.
Last update on 2020-09-29 at 12:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Water is just as critical for dogs as it is for us. They can drink several bowls a day normally, which will increase due to more physical activity when bugging out. Be sure to pack enough water bladders, purification tablets, and filtering methods to ensure there is enough water for you and the dog.
Having a water and food dish will make mealtime simpler, but normal bowls are bulky and do not pack easily. To save space and weight try collapsible dishes.
Just like other members of our family, dogs can have medical needs or concerns as well. Be sure to pack enough medications to cover your dog’s health concerns for as long as possible. A small first aid kit could include antibiotics, antiseptic wipes, and bandages.
You never know what you will have to travel through when bugging out, which will likely increase exposure to fleas and ticks. Pack the proper remedies to deal with these pests that work best for your dog.
Whether or not to pack pet clothing into your dog’s pack is entirely up to what kind of dog you have and the region in which you live. For example, a short-haired dog in a cold region will probably need additional protection. But even a long-haired dog who is an indoor pet probably will not be accustomed to the elements
If your dog’s pads are not particularly tough, consider packing a means of protecting them, like dog booties.
A brush will come in handy when looking for ticks and a nail clipper will keep their nails properly trimmed. Plus, some dogs enjoy both of these experiences and bring a sense of normality to a stressful situation.
Unexpected dangers or security issues can pop up quickly in a survival situation, so it is important to be able to keep your dog close by, safe, and restrained when needed. Even if the dog is wearing their collar and leash most of the time, it would be a good idea to have a backup pair. A reflective leash and vest will help in keeping track of the dog if they stray too far away.
Depending on how well the dog is trained, an extra-long leash and anchor will allow them more free movement after being on a short leash for an extended amount of time.
Plus, you may not always be able to keep an eye on your dog, such as during the night when you are sleeping or if you need to venture somewhere that you do not want your dog to follow. An anchor will help to ensure they stay close by and safe during these times.
Last update on 2020-09-29 at 12:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Proof of ownership and a list of vaccinations can come in handy when bugging out during emergency events and your veterinarian cannot be reached.
It would also be helpful to have a list of the dog’s medical needs as well as a current photo in case they become lost.
Believe it or not, dogs can become stressed out just as we do. Packing a favorite toy can help them to relax and bring a bit of normalcy during hard times.
So how should you carry it all? There are a couple of different options available depending on the size of the dog and if you are traveling by foot or vehicle.
I have heard that some breeds can carry up to twenty-five percent of their body weight but this should probably be avoided long term if the dog is not accustomed to it.
If you want the dog to carry some of the weight consider looking into dog packs that physically strap on to them, such as K-9 packs or saddlebags.
If you are traveling by foot or in a vehicle then the dog’s gear can be put into a regular pack or a pack specifically designed for dogs, similar to an Overland Dog Travel Bag.
Last update on 2020-09-29 at 12:52 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Whatever items you choose and how you choose to carry it, be sure that your dog is as prepared as the rest of the family when it is time to bug out.
Thanks for this great article Bryan! I have 2 Jack Chis and their preps are stored along with the rest of our family’s stuff. I also wanted to mention that we shop at Petsmart and they have a great line of camping/prepping items for dogs called Arcadia Trail. We really like them! Lastly I normally feed my dogs dry food, but I prep with canned food. I find it easier to store along with our human canned food, and it doesn’t expire as quickly. Thanks again for reminding everyone to prep for their fur family members, too!
Phone: 630-579-5823
Email: [email protected]
Since 2010, the mission of SurvivalCache.com is to provide the most in-depth discussions about survival prepping. Prepping is about being ready for anything that comes your way; whether that’s a natural disaster or manmade. SurvivalCache is here to educate. Check out the team below and read more about us here.
This copyrighted material may not be republished without express permission. The information presented here is for general educational purposes only.
SurvivalCache.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking reviews to Amazon. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Additionally, SurvivalCache.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we may get a commission through purchases made through our links.
Dog Bug Out Bag Design
Research & References of Dog Bug Out Bag Design|A&C Accounting And Tax Services
Source
0 Comments