Hiking Checklist

Having a hiking checklist for you and your dog can help you remember everything you need for the trail. I keep the basic items in a box in the trunk of my car so they are always ready for the hike. Add you own items to this basic hiking checklist.

FOR YOUR DOG

1) Water Always carry fresh water. Rivers and streams may harbor Giardia, a small protozoan that may cause intestinal problems for your dog. There are water filters available that can screen out Giardia.

2) Leash, Collar or Harness Remember the LEASH. Dogs need to be on leash in most parks unless in a designated off leash area. Most dogs wear a collar of some type. For the least amount of strain on your dogs neck, a buckle collar is best. Harnesses have the advantage of taking all the pressure off of your dogs neck. Dogs feel calmer and less panicky when they do not have something pulling at their throat.

3) Backpack A healthy, well conditioned dog can carry 25% - 30% of its own body weight in a backpack.

4) Treats Its best not to feed your dog a big meal before hiking. Allow them an hour or more to digest the meal before strenuous exercise. Bringing some treats along give the dog something tasty to snack on and some added energy.

5) Poop Bags Please remember the poop bags. Any kind of bag will do. They can double as garbage bags for leftovers from lunch. Please pack out your garbage.

FOR YOU

1) Water You need water to stay hydrated just as much as your dog does. Being dehydrated can lead to headaches and fatigue. As you continue to hike, the more water you drink, the better you will feel.

2) Snacks If you are hiking for a full day, bring along a lunch, but always have some snacks available to munch on at rest breaks. Dried or fresh fruit, energy bars and nuts are tasty and easy to pack.

3) Dress in Layers Mountain weather can change in an instant. You can experience all 4 seasons in a single day. If you wear layers of clothes, you can take some off as you warm up and put them back on as needed. Mountain tops are often very windy so a windbreaker of some kind is advisable. A waterproof poncho is lightweight and will be appreciated if it starts to rain. Consider a warm hat to keep your ears and head comfortable. I always take some lightweight wool or fleece gloves along too.

4) Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Insect Repellent These are definite necessities to enjoy your day on the trail

5) Hiking Boots Hiking boots give support to your feet and ankles on uneven trails and steep inclines. There are many good lightweight varieties available. Make sure they are broken in before heading out on a long hike. Nothing is more uncomfortable than a foot full of blisters.

6) First Aid Supplies BandAids, tweezers, topical wound disinfectant, gauze pads, bandaging tape and scissors or a sharp knife are handy items to pack along.

7) Camera Have it handy to capture all the great moments of your hike.

Got the Gear!