Confessions of a Dog Trainer: I took my dog on holiday

A dog trainer’s real-life trip with a slightly reactive dog, a packed cart, and a lot of snacks

A few weeks ago, I took my dog on a holiday. Well, when I say holiday – it was my version of one, which was a weekend dog training event.

I had my doubts about taking her. River was very reactive at one point, still doesn't do big bouncy dogs (she’s really rather small), and she can bark at novel things. I REALLY didn’t want to be the person with that dog.

The worry before we even left

My other concern was the weather. Training in the July heat is a serious worry when your dog’s a mixed breed (Jack Russell x Pug) with a shorter than average snout. Overheating and heat stress weighed heavily on my mind.

So what did I do? I watched the weather forecast for the area I was travelling to – for months. The forecast changed almost daily. So I shopped for every possible scenario.

What I packed for my dog

Here’s what I packed just for the daytime:

5L water container (for top-ups)
Collapsible water bowl
Raised bed
Two cooling mats
River-sized yoga mat
Three portable fans
Pop-up UV tent (marketed for babies – perfect for River)
Clip-on multi-directional sports shade
Three cool coats
Two rain jackets
Towel
Cool bag

And for the evenings:

Doggy sleeping bag
Soft fleece blanket
Collapsible food bowl
Puppy pads (just in case)
Treats – lots of treats

She had so much stuff I had to pack my cart to wheel it all around in. I had exactly one bag – which I could barely fit in my vehicle.

So, how did it actually go?

She's not used to travelling for longish periods and arrived with an upset tummy so putting the puppy pads down in the accommodation gave me a little piece of "just in case" mind. The weather was typically British - baking hot the first day, heavy downpours the next. We used everything except the cool coats (you have to be very careful when using those). She barked at exactly one thing. Was completely cool with the donkeys and she slept like a log.

As for the training – I was honestly pretty useless on the first day…BUT SHE worked beautifully. And she made me cry. Not because she was “perfect”… but because she was there, and she was happy. I was so proud of her.

What it reminded me

It felt odd, being a complete novice at some of the activities – but it gave me a fresh appreciation of how my clients must feel. It’s tricky to remember new information, do things “properly”, and not worry what other people might be thinking about your efforts. But then I reminded myself of what I tell my clients all the time:
"You're learning – you're not supposed to be perfect. Just enjoy it."

Will we do it again?

You betcha! I loved it!

Will I take all the same gear? Yes – it’s all stored away ready for next time (well, some of it still needs a place to live – hint: messy kitchen!).

Will I have the same worries as before? Yes, no doubt about it but I won't let fear stop me.

Will I care if I still suck at some things?
Nope. I’ll just be happy that River and I are spending time together doing what we love.
Pippa x

Categories: : Confessions of a Dog Trainer