The summer is about to wave us goodbye in a few days, and these days of late summer are the most enjoyable ones. It is considered to be a perfect time to go hiking with your pooch. The moderate temperature, no wet rocks, no chilly wind and low humidity make the late summer a perfect period for a hike.
Though, it may become difficult for your pup to sustain while hiking, if he has never done it before. Thus, it is important to prepare your pooch for this adventure to make it enjoyable and successful. The following tips to prepare for a hike with your furry companion may definitely help you do so.
Let’s have a look at 5 ways on planning a late summer hike with your dog!
- Build strength for this adventure!
The scorching heat of the summer may have made you and your pooch a little lazy and the ones who prefer to be indoors. Thus, it is necessary that you and the dog have enough exercise as practice to build the required strength for the hike. Convert your short walks into long and turn your walks into jogs.
- Ensemble of required equipments!
Make a list of whatever you may need on your hiking expedition. Be smart in picking up things. If you have a bigger dog, consider getting him a doggie backpack to share your load. Make sure it is not heavier than 15-20% of your dog’s weight.Make your dog carry the backpack on his regular walk to get him used to it. Your dog’s backpack should carry his first-aid kit, dog waste bag, water bowl, food, and food bowl. Water may be too heavy for your dog to carry. So, it would be better if you carry the water bottle.
- Consistent recall is a must have behavior!
Hiking is a great opportunity for dogs to have an unleashed fun experience. Now, it does not imply that you and your pets will be the only ones going for a hike. There may be other people and dogs on the trail. So, it is very important that your pooch is obedient and knows the consistent recall behavior.Your furry friends should come to you at your command. For taming them, start practicing from today. It is a big responsibility to take your dogs for this adventure. There may be distracting environment, other canines that might not be as good as yours. Thus, good behavior is one of the first things to be certain of before going for hiking.
- Are the creeks and lakes safe for your pooch?
When you decide which trail to choose for the hike, it is important that your research well on it. If there are lakes and creeks falling on the way, will it be alright if your companion drinks water from it, or not. There may be several bacteria and parasites in stagnant water. Get to the bottom of the place and then settle for that trail.
- Other dangers that you need to take care of!
Before taking off into the wild, it is imperative to stay up-to-date on your dog’s vaccinations. Rabies, flea and tick treatments, heartwormers, etc. are some of the prime treatments that your pooch might need to be on. The wilderness of the trail may have odd surprises which could be harmful for your pet. Thus, use of preventives is a must before you take your canine for hiking.
Overheat can cause a heart stroke. Keep him hydrated throughout the walk. Dogs can be over-excited with their exploring instinct and may not consider about their health. It is your responsibility to keep a check on it. Take frequent breaks if you see your canine is panting freakishly.
The coming weekend or the next one may be the perfect one for taking your pooch for hiking. Use these tips to plan a fun trip to the nearest hiking spot and spend some quality time with your furry friend.
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