National Hiking Day

by Cindy Macklin for York Veterinary Hospital

Hiking . . . what better way to celebrate than to plan an adventure with your pooch!? Serious hiking is no “walk in the park” and preparation is critical in avoiding “missteps” along the trail.

•Make sure your dog is current on vaccines, on flea/tick and heartworm prevention, and is in good physical condition and can enjoy the hike without becoming fatigued, distressed, or injured. If your pet is not already vaccinated against lyme’s disease (transmitted by ticks) and leptospirosis (contracted by exposure to rodent/wildlife waste and/or to freshwater lakes or ponds) meet with your veterinarian at least 6 weeks beforehand to protect your pooch. Ask your veterinarian about using petsafe insect repellent.

•Young dogs’ bones and joints are still developing, so talk with your veterinarian about what is a “reasonable” hike for your puppy based on his/her age, breed, and developmental condition.

•Be sure your pet is welcome where you intend to hike. Some state and national parks have “pet friendly” trails, but many are restricted (especially on wildlife preserves where dogs may disrupt native wildlife or where there is concern that domestic pets could introduce disease in a fragile ecosystem).

•Mind your “trail manners” and do not allow your pet to be disruptive to others. When you encounter fellow hikers with your pet, step off the trail to allow them to pass. Always clean up after your pet, even “in the wild.” Pets who are reactive to strangers or wildlife, or who bark excessively, should remain at home. Being courteous is important in keeping recreation areas open to sharing with our furry family members.

•Keep your pet on leash so they can’t harass or chase (potentially dangerous) wildlife, stray so far from you that they become a target for predators, or go into terrain that puts them at risk for life-threatening falls or injuries. Be aware of native wildlife, and their breeding/ hibernation patterns (when they may behave more aggressively). Make sure your pet is microchipped and wearing an ID collar or tags. Electronic tracking collars (or tags) can be helpful in finding your pet if you become separated.

•use “dog booties” to protect your pet’s feet in rough terrain. Allow your dog to get acclimated to them at home before venturing into the wild. Inspect your dog’s feet and legs periodically during the hike, even if they are wearing boots. Also, check for burrs or briars that may be caught in their fur and cause skin sores, and monitor your pet for cuts and scrapes. • Be prepared. Bring a first aid kit and tools to remove ticks and burrs tangled in the fur as soon as you find them. Bring a muzzle and materials to make a sling to carry your pet out if he/she becomes injured or lame.

•Pack food and water for your pet. Don’t allow them to eat unfamiliar plants, the feces of wildlife or drink from streams, puddles, or ponds.

•Be mindful of the weather. Bring a dog sweater and rain gear in cooler weather. Monitor for signs of overheating such as panting, abnormally red gums, anxiety or lethargy. Give Fido rest stops and keep him/her hydrated. Some dogs can carry a small pack, but don’t over-due it. The pack can contribute to overheating and overloading can cause back strain or injury.

•When you return from your adventure, give your pet a good nose-to-tail inspection, brushing and a bath. Then settle back on the couch to watch slideshows of your time-wellspent together!

Happy Hiking from the team members of York Veterinary Hospital!