Hiking with Your Dog

So, you’re heading out for a hike on a beautiful weekend morning. Here’s a checklist to ensure you and your four-legged pal have a pleasant hike:

1) Ensure the trail is dog-friendly

2) Check your dog’s ID tag to ensure it’s secure and your name and phone number is current and accurately displayed

3) Have a basic first aid kit (bandages, tweezers, ointment)

4) Bring a leash, collar and waste bags (nothing ruins a hike more than stepping in dog poop)

5) Have both your vet's and an emergency vet’s phone number on you

6) Have a photo of your dog

7) Bring plenty of water (and a collapsible water bowl if your dogs won’t drink out of a bottle)

8) Do research on the trail to make sure there are no snakes or the trail is a good fit for both you and your dog’s physical capabilities/limitations

9) Don’t let your dog drink from a puddle or stream (risk of bacteria like Giardia)