Summer Fun
Finally, the snow is (mostly) melted, and it’s time to switch from snow boots to hiking boots! Your best friend is ready too! Make sure your dog is trail-ready and welcome in the backcountry.
The first stop might be a visit with your vet to make sure your dog is ready for the hike you have planned. Ensure your dog is up to date on important vaccinations like rabies, DHPP, and leptospirosis. Some dogs are better hikers than others. If your pooch is young or is getting up in years, it’s especially important to make sure they are healthy enough and have the stamina to go. Starting with small outings is always a good idea.
Make sure to check the rules for the area you are visiting. Some US national parks do not allow dogs on trails, even when on leashes. Many national forests, as well as state and local parks, allow dogs on their trail systems, though rules vary. Leashes are mandatory almost everywhere.
Start packing once you’ve done your homework and made sure your dog is ready and welcome! Take food (more than you usually feed) and water (drinking from streams can expose them to very dangerous bacteria and parasites). You will also need to add a few items to your dog's first-aid kit. Things such as tweezers, paw crack ointment, and booties are important to have. Do some research or buy a ready-made dog first aid kit. You will also need a leash, a clip-on light to locate your pet even when it’s dark, and their favorite treats to let them know how much you enjoy the adventure by their side!
In the wilderness, remember you and your dog are not alone. Be good neighbors to your fellow hikers and to wildlife. You may think your dog is adorable and everyone will love them, but not everyone wants a random dog bounding up to them in the middle of a peaceful hike. You must always maintain control of your dog. Keeping your dog on a short leash is important for safety, courtesy, and control. An off-leash dog can disappear out of sight and get into trouble. You don’t want your dog to come over a hill filled with porcupine quills or reeking of skunk. If there are off-leash areas where you are hiking, only let your dog run free if you have verbal control and can always see them.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but pick up after your dog. You might think your dog’s waste is a natural part of the cycle of life, especially in more remote locations. However, it can cause problems for local wildlife and even affect the water supply. And to be frank, it’s rude to leave your dog’s waste behind. You wouldn’t leave it on a sidewalk in town, so don’t leave it on a trail.
Have a great summer of hiking, camping, and exploring with your pooch. If you don’t have a dog to hike with, visit us and meet one of our wonderful adoptable dogs! If you’re not ready to adopt, consider short-term fostering or taking a dog for a hike with our Dog’s Day Out Program. Check out our website to learn more!
Since 1994, the Animal Resource Center and the Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been dedicated to serving animals in Southwestern Colorado. Our adoption hours are every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. We are located at 177 County Rd 10, Ridgway, CO. You can view our shelter pets and services online at secondchancehumane.org.