Hiking with your dog can be an enjoyable experience, provided you have the right hiking gear to accommodate you and your pet. Taking your best friend along shouldn’t stall you with extra gear but you will need to think about where you are going and how long you plan to hike in order to make certain you have what you need for a safe trip.
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Whether planning an afternoon hike or taking an overnight trek, you have to ensure to fill your rucksack with the following items to help your dog have as much fun as you do.
Enough water for you and your dog.
If you’re certain that there’ll be water sources along the trail, carry a water bottle with you that you can refill if needed. If you are uncertain about water availability, pack 1-2 quarts of water for your dog for a day hike plus enough for yourself. If your dog doesn’t drink from water bottle or any body of water, bring collapsible dog bowls.
Leash
Most trail ways entail that your dog be on a leash or harness while hiking. A leash will also help keep order especially if there are other dogs on the trail with you.
First-Aid Kit
Majority of dog injuries during hiking occur on the pads of pet’s feet. The pads can easily be cut on sticks, stones and roots in the ground. You should stop hiking from time to time to check your dogs paw pads for cuts or blisters. Have the suitable bandages and disinfectants with you in case this happens.
Make sure your dog is healthy and well-nourished before setting out on the hike. *
Dog tags
The dog tags must include your contact information as well as your pet’s vaccination details. Make sure the rabies tag that you received from your veterinarian is attached to your dog’s collar.
Clean-up Items
Zip-lock bags are great for hiking trips to reduce the odor of the dog poop while on your hike. Be sure to pick up all your dog’s poop while hiking using paper towels or your bag and dispose of it in a garbage container. Also carry a towel to clean off your dog should s/he gets dirty.
Dog Treats
Your dog will get tired just as you will. Make sure to pack a few treats to keep him energized until you get back home. Still, don’t over-feed your dog while hiking or your pooch may get sick. Treats can also be helpful in getting your dog’s attention should they run off unexpectedly.
Above all, make sure your dog is up to the challenge of an afternoon hike. Make sure s/he is healthy and well-nourished before setting out on the hike. Older dogs should be treated to a trail way with a level terrain and with little to no incline. Small dogs should be taken on well groomed trails that won’t have a lot of low hanging brush or leaves that may cause eye or skin irritation.
Pay attention to the signs your dog may give while on a hike that there is something wrong. If they avoid the sunshine or lay underneath leaves they may be dehydrated and need to stop for a long drink of water. If their stride becomes labored or if they favor one paw over another, they may have gotten a sliver or cut on their pad. Your dog will tell you what they need while outdoors so long as you listen.
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