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Day Hiking with your Dog



Product Code: 00-DA-HIKINGDOG

Copyright
October 2008

Description
 
Any season is the perfect time to have your dog accompany you when you set off for a day hike in the woods, hills or mountains. With a little planning you can set out on your adventure together and be prepared for everything the great outdoors has to offer. In this article, we'll go over some of the essential items you will need to consider if you're bringing along your dog.

Lead, or Leash
This one is probably obvious to most of us who live in the suburbs, not everyone does though. The leash or long lead is the best tool to use if you need to control your dog.  Perhaps a stranger approaches you on the trail or an animal is nearby.  You want to be able to leash your dog when you need to so bring a leash with you.   The leash should be one that fits your hand comfortably and is sturdy enough to hold your dog.

Collar & Dog Tag
The most important item and second on our list is a dog collar with dog tags.  It's the dog tags that are really important here.  If you're likely to allow your dog to be off leash in the woods, you must consider that they may become separated from you.  If that happens, it will be the dog tags that will aid in the recovery of your dog.  Your dog should always wear their dog tags which should include a town or city license tag, vaccination tags and an identification tag that includes current information on how to reach you, if needed.

The rest of the gear you bring along really depends on the season and the amount of time you will be hiking together.  If you hike with your dog often, you might want to consider a well fitted dog backpack and let them carry their own gear.  Not only does this lighten your load but it also helps by giving them a job to do while with you and will make sure they are plenty tired from all the exercise when you return home.  Make sure you build up the weight they carry slowly so they can become accustomed to it.  Overloading it the first time out will be no fun for your dog. You should remove it periodically if on a long difficult hike to give them an opportunity to rest.

Food & Water
If you'll be gone for more than hour, you'll need to bring water along and a small portable bowl.  Make sure to bring enough for both the dog and everyone on the hike.  Dogs drink a lot of water normally and will definitely need to drink while out on the hike with you. Fresh water is not always available and drinking from puddles or ponds can make your dog sick. Don't risk it. 

Since your dog will be exercising the entire time, it's also a good idea to bring along some food or treats to help keep their energy up.  While hiking you can practice and reinforce obedience while rewarding your dog with yummy treats.  This will make the hike more fun for your dog because you'll be interacting with them.  It'll be more fun for you too! Teach them something new or toss a favorite toy every so often. 

Clothing
You should consider the weather while hiking not only for yourself but also for your dog.  If you're hiking over rough terrain or during winter, you'll want to protect their feet and check them often.  Rough terrain can tear up their pads which they might not feel right away.  Any cuts should be taken care of immediately to prevent further damage or infection.  Boots for your dog could be an excellent investment you might consider.  Not only will the help protect the pads but can also keep the ice and snow from building up between their toes.

During hunting season you want to make sure that you and your dog are clearly visible to any hunter in the woods. Make sure your dog wears orange.  There are orange safety vests for dogs as well as collars and harnesses.  Be safe, wear bright blaze orange and be certain you'll be seen as well as your dog.

First Aid
It's always a good idea to carry even a small first aid kit with you while hiking.  They are usually packed with essential items that you can use in an emergency.  Most come with a booklet on basic first aid instructions as well.

Lastly, make sure you check any regulations that may restrict access to wildlife areas and pick up after your dog. With a little planning before you go on your hikes together, you are sure to have a great time.  

Be prepared.  Be safe. Enjoy.

This article was written by Doreen Simpson. Visit www.dbdogshop.com for more "Good Ideas for Good Dogs."

Reproduction in any form is not allowed without the express written permission of the author.
Copyright October 2008 by DBDogShop.com

 
 
  


 

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