When introducing your pet to the joy of hiking there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to know that not all hiking areas allow dogs, so it is best to research what trails are four-legged friendly. You can find local trails that allow dogs using the websites https://hikewithyourdog.com and www.bringfido.com . Most hiking trails are fine for your furry companion, as long as you keep them leashed.
In the great outdoors, your pet can be exposed to several parasites and diseases. When hiking in the Pennsylvania wilds, your dog should be up to date on Rabies, Distemper, Lepto, and Lyme vaccinations. If you live in a different region, be sure to check with your veterinarian on their vaccine recommendations. In addition to these important vaccines, they should also be on a current monthly heartworm preventative, such as Heartgard (most heartworm preventatives have the added benefit of monthly de-worming for other intestinal parasites) and flea/tick prevention, such as a Seresto collar, Nexgard, or Vectra 3D.
When choosing a leash for hiking with your dog, choose one that is basic and sturdy. Retractable leashes are not ideal for hiking; as they can result in injuries to your dog or yourself, and are easy to get tangled up in the surrounding environment. Having your dog leashed is the best way to keep you and your dog on track and together while hiking. Even the best behaved dogs can become distracted and separate themselves from you if something they see or smell peaks their interest. Be sure to have proper identification tags on your dog, in case they would get away from you.
Packing the essentials seems like a no-brainer for us, but don’t forget about your dog! When hiking with your pet you should have plenty of fresh water for your pet to drink, some healthy treats for along the way, and pet waste bags. Dog friendly hiking gear has come a long way; many websites have collapsible dog food dishes and even dog water bottles that can easily be clipped onto a backpack for your convenience.
Not every dog is meant for hiking, and it is best to be mindful of your pet when preparing to take them with you. First and foremost, make sure the weather conditions are right. Hiking on a cooler day is much better that picking the warmest day of the week, as pets can overheat much easier than we can. If you choose a warmer day to hike the best ways to avoid overheating in your pet are: be sure to bring plenty of extra water, try to hike in more shaded areas, hike earlier or later in the day, and take plenty of rest breaks. If you are just introducing your pet to hiking, start out with smaller walks and gradually increase the distance and activity level.
Hiking is a fun way to strengthen your bond with your pet. We hope that with all of these tips, you can get out and start enjoying the nicer weather together. Happy Trails!