Ensuring your dog’s safety on trail is a top priority for hikers who want to bring along their furry friends. Since your dog isn’t able to speak up when they’re feeling tired, thirsty, hot or cold — you’ll need to pay close attention to the surrounding conditions and how your dog is acting to make sure they are staying comfortable.
REI is hosting a “How to Hike Safely With Your Dog” webinar with Washington’s Recreate Responsibly Coalition on April 28 via Zoom.
Washington’s Recreate Responsibly Coalition — made up of members from the Washington Trails Association, King County Search Dogs and Washington State Animal Response Team — will discuss their favorite tools and tricks for raising hiking pups and keeping our furry friends safe on trail. These experts have many miles and years of experience training a variety of pup personalities.
In the meantime, here are some tips for hiking safely with your dog in both hot and cold weather.
Hot weather tips
After a long and restless winter, we can’t wait to enjoy some warm sunshine on trail. But, hiking in those high temperatures will require a bit more forethought for those bringing their pups along.
These tips will keep both you and your dog happy while hiking in the heat.
Be aware of bugs. Bugs — and most notably, ticks — begin emerging as early as March in parts of the state. Ticks like to hang out in shaded, grassy areas, so try to keep your pup on the established trail to lower their risk of bites (one more great reason to keep dogs, who are tick-magnets, on leash). Once you finish up your hike, give your dog a thorough tick check and remove any you find.
Protect their paws. While compact ice isn’t as much of a problem in the heat of summer — the possibility of burning your pups paws on hot surfaces is. If you are hiking somewhere with asphalt or gravel trail tread (human-made surfaces which retain heat well) keep an eye out for limping or a hesitation to continue walking from your dog.
Keep them cool. Heat exhaustion is a real concern for our furry friends. If the forecast calls for high temperatures, head somewhere with plenty of shade and water to cool off, or consider leaving your buddy at home, even if they beg you to bring them along.
Stay hydrated. When hiking with a four-legged friend this summer, be sure to bring them their own supply of water and a container to drink from (an old Tupperware or rinsed-out plastic container makes a light and cheap dog bowl). Dogs’ biology makes them more prone to dehydration, so make sure they’re drinking water as often as you are — especially on hot days.
Ensure safe drinking water. Some lakes are populated with blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, which is toxic to dogs and can be fatal. It’s best to avoid allowing our pups to drink from or wade into ponds and lakes, especially if algae is visible. Running streams are much safer, as is the water you carry.
Cold weather tips
The snow is falling but that doesn’t mean you have to leave the dogs at home. Being prepared for the winter weather conditions can make a brisk day on trail with your pups just as enjoyable as any other hike.
These tips will keep both you and your dog happy while hiking in the cold.
Keep them warm. Just because your dog has a coat of fur, doesn’t mean they won’t get cold on a frigid day. If need be, buy your dog a winter fleece for when the temperatures drop below freezing. Remember to always check the weather conditions before heading out on the trail and know your dog’s limits.
Make time for snacks and hydration. Having enough water and food is especially important during the winter months. The colder temperatures and snow causes your pups to work harder and burn more calories, meaning they will get exhausted and dehydrated more easily. Be sure to take frequent rest breaks along the way.
Start small with snow. Before hitting deep powder, take your dog on some shorter walks in the snow. This will allow you to get an understanding of how they handle the conditions. Over time you can gradually work them up to longer more strenuous hikes. Some dogs might even prefer a healthy dose of snow on hikes. (Have you ever witnessed the pure look of joy on a Husky’s face as they roll around in a fresh layer of powder?)
Check for ice. Snow and ice can form compact ice balls between the paw pads of your furry friends. This will not only slow them down, but it can also be quite painful. To prevent this from happening, you can buy some doggy booties for all their winter adventures. If booties aren’t their style, just be sure to check your dog’s paw pads every time you stop to rest.
Washington Trails Association promotes hiking as a way to inspire a people to protect Washington’s natural places. Learn more at www.wta.org.
How to hike safely with your dog
REI presents a “How to Hike Safely With Your Dog” webinar with Washington’s Recreate Responsibly Coalition at 7 p.m. April 28 via Zoom. Experts with the Washington Trails Association, King County Search Dogs and the Washington State Animal Response Team will share tools and tricks for raising hiking pups and keeping your furry friends safe on trail. Learn how to find dog-friendly trails, how to train your pup on trail etiquette, and what to look out for to help keep your doggo safe outdoors. A Zoom link will be emailed to you with registration. More at www.rei.com.
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