Take a Geocaching Adventure with Your Pack

The popular treasure hunting sport known as “geocaching” is not just a hobby for humans—your pack can join in on the fun as well. Players and their dogs use GPS guidance and intuition to hunt for hidden containers called “caches,” both locally and worldwide. The community activity requires players to hide the weather-safe caches in adventurous and creative locations while other players can search out the caches for their reward. Caches are often filled with an assortment of random oddities. This worldwide treasure hunt is a perfect bonding experience for adventurers.

Adventure is Out There

1. The first thing you need to do is to open an account on geocaching.com!

2. Create an account by selecting a creative username, and then upload a fun profile photo! This step allows you to show your personality and connect with other geocachers. You could use your pet’s name and a photo of them.

3. After you have an account, download the geocaching app for your smartphone.

4. Next, choose the subscription level you want. You can use the free or paid subscription on the app.

5. Once you select your subscription, pick your skill level and treasure hunt!

6. Before you hit the trail, research the area on the geocaching app to ensure that dogs are permitted in the area. There should be a “dog allowed” icon for all locations that are dog friendly.

7. Lastly, be safe! Always tell a friend where you go and check the cache location for safety concerns. Never let your dog roam without you on these excursions, especially in unfamiliar territory.

What to Bring

Human Needs

Just like any adventure, you need to prepare your pack with what you need for a day of exploring! Make sure to pack your phone charger and even a backup battery pack. With geocaching, you never know how long the adventure could last. Bring healthy, portable snacks like beef jerky and mixed nuts as well as water to ensure you have energy to follow through. Be sure to also wear appropriate seasonal clothing and shoes so you are comfortable for the fun.

Pet Needs

Make sure that your pet’s tick and flea prevention is current. Ensure that your dog has a current ID tag, and their collar is secure. Bring plenty of Triumph treats for your pack and lots of water to wash down the delicious treats. A portable water bowl is perfect for on-the-go hydration. Most importantly, remember to Leave No Trace as you head out into the wild.

Bond with Your Pack

Learn

Geocaching can be a great learning experience for you and your pack! This activity engages you into a problem-solving mindset while your dog can enjoy the interesting smells, sounds, and sights of the new area.

Exercise

Caches are typically hidden outdoors at parks, hiking trails, or even around bodies of water. These locations are perfect for getting those extra steps in! Your dog will appreciate the longer walks.

Bonding

Exploring and working on a goal-oriented task with your dog is a bonding experience meant to be cherished. Dogs love to explore with you, their pack leader! You and your pack will appreciate the quality time together.

Budget

Every budget and schedule can get behind the adventure of geocaching! With the app, you can locate treasure hunts within your city or in another state or even another country. You will often discover fun and historical places.

After your trip, you and your pack can record your experience online! Be sure to tag @TriumphPetFood in all your geocaching adventures.

You May Also Like:

For more ways to Awaken Your Pet’s Free Spirit, be sure to follow Triumph’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages!

---