The sun is finally making an appearance and we all know your dog will want to be out in it as much as we are. No more hiding in the doorway because the rain keeps coming down: it’s time to go on a long walk! Going camping and hiking are definitely on the agenda. You love it. Your dog loves it. What’s not to love? You’ll both get exercise and both be happier being out in nature, not to mention bonding with each other while you traverse the world and get out in nature.
But are there things you should think about? After all, you’re away from home, without the comforts expected there. Is there anything you should consider while you’re out in the wild? We break it down in this guide.
Preparation
Of course, you can’t just head out the door the second you see the sun emerging. There are some things you should get done to prepare yourself and your dog for your trip into the wild.
For one thing, you might want to do some research on the trails and campsites you intend to visit when hiking with your dog to ensure that you are allowed to bring your dog and if there are any rules to follow. You might also want to take your dog on some trial runs through the country parks to get them accustomed to being on a leash and trail conditions.
When you’re packing to go hiking with your dog, bring the right gear. You’ll need things like a doggy backpack, booties, collapsible bowls, waste bags etc.
And of course, don’t leave the house without your dog having been chipped and wearing their tags. Many owners now have a tracker on their dog for extra safety.
On the Trail
The freedom of hiking with your dog doesn’t mean there are no rules, though your dog might think so. When you are on the trail, keep your dog leashed and under control in order to respect not only the other people you might come against, but also the local wildlife. Remember to leave nothing but footprints, which means properly disposing of your dog’s waste using dog waste bags.
Remember that your dog might not be up to the excursion and give them plenty of breaks for rest, water, and snacks. Also, you might want to keep an eye on them as they sniff around. Be aware of potentially hazardous plants, animals, or terrain while hiking with your dog. Check if it’s algae season before setting off.
Camping with Your Dog
If you’re not wild camping, take some time for choosing a dog-friendly campsite and properly containing and tying up your dog. You might even like to have a few practice runs in the garden to get them acclimated to sleeping in a tent and campsite etiquette. Make sure to check the regulations. Some sites prohibit dogs or have breed and size restrictions.
Avoid camping near areas with potential dangers like cliffs or swift water. For the sake of etiquette and safety, never leave your dog unattended and be aware of their barking. Keep your campsite clean and doggie smells away to avoid annoying other campers and attracting wildlife.
Post-Adventure Care
But there’s work to do when you’re back from hiking with your dog too. Check your dog for ticks, injuries, or plant matter stuck their in paws and fur. Look over your dog for cuts, abrasions and limping that might need a visit to the vet.
You might want to give your dog a good bath for your sake and theirs. It’ll get rid of any mud that they’re tracking back into the house and giving them a brushing will let them rest after the excursion.
Conclusion
And don’t forget to take lots of pictures. There are lots of rewards to bonding with your dog in nature, not least the memories.