Spring Hiking with Your Dog.

Spring hiking often means MUD! Whether you are out in the wilderness or on a city trail, melting snow, early season rains, or mountain run off all spell fun in the mud for dogs. Dogs seem to have no aversion to blasting through puddles or forging ahead along a muddy trail.

Things to watch out for when hiking in the spring:

1) Ice on rivers or lakes. The worst thing I have ever witnessed was a dog going under the ice. As ice around the edges of lakes and rivers thaws, it is very unstable and easy to break through. Keep you dog away from melting ice. That way you will avoid having to mount a rescue mission or deal with a worse tragedy.

2) Wildlife. If you are hiking in the mountains and areas where bears hibernate, they are coming out of hibernation around the end of March. Be alert when hiking and make lots of noise. Watch for signs of bear activity and make sure your dog is on leash. If you see signs indicating a bear may be in the area, LEAVE!

3) Rising water levels. This is especially important in mountain areas where snow at higher elevation is starting to melt and causing rivers to rise and possibly over flow their banks. Small creeks can quickly turn into rushing torrents of glacial melt water.

4) Mud. Most dogs aren’t bothered by mud and some actually seek it out to play in! Just watch for slippery areas for you and your dog. If you drove to your hike, bring a towel or two to wipe you dog off before getting back in the car.

5) Ticks. Always check your dog and yourself to make sure no unwanted hitchhikers have attached themselves. Tuck your pants in your socks to prevent ticks attaching to your ankles.