Be Prepared

The key to a great hike is to be prepared prior to hiking with your dog.

Before you head out on the trail with your dog make sure :

1) Vaccinations are up to date. If you are crossing the border into Canada, you will be asked to show proof of vaccination for your dog. Check with Canada Customs just to be sure. You may want to vaccinate against Giardia, a small protozoa, which is common in mountain streams. Check with your vet.

2) Your dog is in shape for the hike. If not, start with some of the easy hikes, or get your dog on a conditioning program to build up her stamina for the hiking season. Trim your dogs nails, especially dew claws, so they do not catch on anything that would cause injury.

3) You have enough water for you and your dog. Dogs need to stay hydrated. Even if it doesn’t seem hot to you, your dog is wearing a fur coat and will need to drink lots of water. Travel bowls work well for this.

4) Your dog has some form of identification. A buckle collar with a dog license tag or something with your contact information on it is ideal.

5) You have the all important leash! Dogs are required to be on leash in Canada's National parks and most provincial parks. Please adhere to these requests.

6) You remember the poop bags. Zip-lock bags work great for this but any kind of bag will do.

7) You have some 1st aid supplies. Bring along some basics like tweezers, topical wound disinfectant, gauze pads, bandaging tape and a veterinarian's phone number.

Taking the time to be prepared with a checklist before you leave for your hike can make all the difference!