Dog Hiking – 7 Important Tips
In the U.S. over 60 million households have one or more pets. Dogs are a member of the family too and they love walking and hiking with you.
There are 7 important things to be considered when dog hiking:
Tip 1 Your Dogs First Hike
Like anyone else some dogs are better suited to a hike along the trail than others. Ask yourself can the dog handle the hike you are planning; the terrain, distance, pace. Start by taking your dog on long walks in local parks and keep increasing the distance until you feel they are ready for the hike. Many dogs are overweight and can take a bit of conditioning to get in shape.
Tip 2 Keep Your Dog Under Control
Your dog needs to be trained; no barking or jumping on other hikers, mountain bikers or horses you may meet along the trail. They must be able to respond to your voice commands if you see some wildlife or even a squirrel. Depending on the hiking trail and dog you may need to keep your dog leashed.
Tip 3 Your Dogs Safety
Take your dog to a vet for a physical and make sure their rabies inoculation is current. Also ensure they are wearing their ID tag on their collar during the hike. Some people have a microchip inserted by the vet so their dog can be found very easily. A great option is to have your dog wear a brightly coloured garment so that you can easily spot then in the woods, see Sun Protective Rashguard Shirtfor Dogs
Tip 4 Pick up after your Dog
Bring lots of plastic bags and keep the hiking trail clean by scooping up after your dog.
Tip 5 Hydration
Be sure to carry lots of water, and water your dog often as they are much more susceptible to heat exhaustion than we are. Dogs do not have sweat glands and pant to disperse body heat. If your dog is panting unusually rapidly or has a bright red tongue they may be suffering from heat exhaustion. Do not permit your dog to drink from streams or lakes along the trail as the water may content microscopic contaminants. Also if hiking in cold weather be sure they wear a coat.
Tip 5 Along the hiking trail
Before dog hiking make sure as part of your conditioning you toughen up the paws. The pads of your dog’s foot can get sore or bled if not used to hiking. Also have any awareness of dangerous wildlife and plants along the trail. Animals such as coyotes have been known to bait and ambush lose dogs and you don’t want you dog chasing a bear either. Respect any “no dogs allowed” signs you see along the hiking trail.
Tip 6 Take a Toy
Bring along a familiar toy or ball. Some dogs like the new scents and sights they discover along the trail while other may be nervous. You can comfort your dog by packing their favourite plaything. Pack are available for dogs, see Outward Hound Urban Adventure Dog Backpack
Tip 7 First Aid
Take a first aid kit and be familiar with its use for cuts and any other emergencies that may come up.
By following these 7 tips for dog hiking you both should have a fun filled walk.
Hiking With Your Dog: Happy Trails: What You Really Need to Know When Taking Your Dog Hiking or Backpacking
Price: $11.0
Pages: 112, Edition: 3rd, Paperback, Mountain N ‘Air Books
Hiking with Dogs, 2nd: Becoming a Wilderness-Wise Dog Owner (Kestrel)
Price: $8.95
Pages: 96, Edition: 2nd, Paperback, Falcon
Originally posted 2009-10-20 06:13:59.
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