DIY Dog Walk Kit – preparation is key

So, you’re going walkies or runsies?

Pooches must poop, they get dirty, and it could rain.

While you can’t take the kennel and all the toys along, you do want to be prepared for the adventures ahead.  For that, you need a carry-all for canines.

We’ve put a new spin on ‘doggy bag’ so you’ll be sorted, whatever adventures you and your dogs have out there.

Where to put it all

A tote bag could totally work, if it’s not too heavy and you’re not going to be moving around much. If you are…

A satchel with zippers and separators/various pockets is ideal. Whether it’s sling style or a two-strap design, choose one with even weight distribution when worn; being prepared can be a weighty affair (which will only increase your workout)! Even better if it’s waterproof or rain resistant. If you’ll be running or walking vigorously or over uneven terrain, pick on that sits comfortably and securely on the body and won’t chaff as you move. Kinda like a good dog harness does.

For an easy amble or when you need minimal items, a moon bag or party pockets may be suitable.

Compact pouches can be worn over the shoulder, around the waist or on a clip or carabiner attached to your wrist. And you can attach the dog leash to it when it’s around your waist. If your dog doesn’t lunge, that is. We don’t want you winded or worse by sudden tugs.

Large, strong dogs can help carry the load with a detachable dog backpack. Keep it light, though, and don’t put anything breakable in there.

You might find a dog stroller the ideal carry pack for your small or disabled dog AND the goods you need. We love ones with revolving front wheels for easy turns. Remember to ‘break’ before you swerve, though, or your pup might go for a tumble and be hurt!

Quick hack: protect delicate/water-sensitive items like toilet paper inside a few plastic packets or line the bag with a bin liner and put the entire contents into it.

What to put in a DIY dog walking bag:

• A DIY first aid kit (we’ve put a link at the end of this piece to help you compile one),
• A spare collar and lead in case something breaks/gets lost, or you rescue a lost dog.
• A small aluminium carabiner (or two) in case a leash or part of the bag snaps. You may be able to clip it back together temporarily. String is also useful for this.
• A LED headlamp in case you get caught in the dark or get lost.
• Extra, charged batteries for your headlamp.
• A knife or blade. If a leash is impossibly tangled, you can resort to cutting it.
• Treats to reward your mutt en route. What’s a good run without a, “good boy”?
• Water that you can both drink at intervals.
• A collapsible or foldable dog water bowl.
• A doggy thermal sweater for cold weather.
• A dog raincoat if you’ve practise with pooch beforehand. Might be awkward otherwise.
• Two pairs of fitted dog boots for extremely cold weather e.g. frost or snow. Teaching pooch to walk in them ahead of time is helpful.
• A ball and thrower because the enticing, happy yelps of “again, Mommy, again, again, again!” demand play, don’t they? Also, a bright ball is easier to find in the undergrowth. If they’re small, it can’t hurt to take one or two extras.
• A whistle for safety and to call your dog OR lighten the load by learning to finger whistle.
• Clicker for practising tricks and training. Goes well with tasty rewards.
• At least two composable poop bags – one to pick, one to put over your hand – and a poop scoop if you’re particularly squeamish. You might prefer a dedicated doggy  do contraption, but it can be bulky if you have a small bag.
• A poop bag dispenser and/or poop packet holder can be handy for accessing the doggy doo bags ASAP and storing the poop so that it doesn’t touch pooch or person. A bag usually clips onto the leash.
• Waterless hand soap to clean your hands after scooping poop. Do not use this on your doggle unless it’s vet-approved for topical application.
• A removable grip for your phone. It’s handy because you’ll drop your phone less and get better angles in your selfies with puppy.

TIP: If it’s a short walk, leave the items you’re less likely to need in the car and use the extra energy for a final-lap dash!

What to leave in the car?

• A water bowl (there’s a blog on a high-tech collar and bowl that add years to a dog’s life).
• A towel to dry.
• Extra water to rinse muddy paws at end.
• A doggy blanket for cuddles afterwards.

Want More helpful how tos and guides? Of course, you do!

First, let’s talk about first aid for pets. Do you know what to do in an emergency?

Want a first aid kit for yourself, too? Put one for the car together with this.

Lots of leash, lead and harness ideas (with links to buy now) here.

Looking for dog-friendly beaches in the Mother City? Dig in, Cape Town!

Running with your dog? Stay safe with these tricks and tips.

Is that a dog who doesn’t like dogs or avoids people? The collar colour might tell you. Here’s how.

Dogs being testy? Try these safety tips to help avoid/break up a dog fight without being hurt in the process.

Oh no. Doggy got hurt and had to have stitches. Luckily, she’s covered by doture.co.za. Here’s how to claim afterwards to help cover the costs.

Here’s how to get a free, no-strings-attached quote on affordable pet cover today. Or you can Name Your Price™.

TIP: No place in the doggy bag? Pop your keys, ID, phone and portable power bank into a running pouch around your wrist or upper arm. If you’re right-handed, put it on the left side for quick and easy access and make sure it’s properly secured and closed before you set off. You might want to keep a safety-stopper pepper spray in your palm, at the ready. Remember not to spray if you’re downwind or in a closed space – then it could hurt you and your dog.