Summer Hiking with Your Dog

Summer is the most popular time for people to go hiking. Taking your dog along is a great way for both of you to get exercise and enjoy the great outdoors. Just a few things to remember and be aware of as you head off on your hike.

1) Heat The hot, lazy days of summer can take a toll on your dog and yourself. Watch for signs of heat stroke in your dog. Avoid hiking at the hottest times of the day if possible. Don’t force your dog to over exert itself. Dogs will push themselves past their limit just to be with you and that can lead to serious health issues. Make sure you dog always has access to clean, cool water.

2) Traveling. Remember, cars heat up quickly in the sun so never leave your dog for long in the car on a hot day. Have water available for your dog when traveling. Use the air conditioning or open windows to get a cross breeze going for your pooch. Preventing your dog from hanging its head out the window will decrease the risk of it getting things in its eye.

3) Bodies of Water Use caution when your dog is around water. Most dogs like to swim, but not all. Let your dog get used to water on their own terms, don’t force them to go into the water if they are showing an aversion to it. Swimming is great exercise for dogs, but pay attention to your dog to make sure they are not overdoing it. A tired dog can get into trouble quickly in the water. If you take your dog to the ocean for a quick dip make sure to rinse him off with fresh water when he gets out to get the salt off. Some public beaches do not allow dogs so please read the signs and be respectful and keep your dog away from the beach.

4) Wildlife Always be aware of your surroundings when hiking to prevent sudden encounters with wildlife. Make noise, keep your dog on a leash and stay alert to any signs that wildlife may be in the area.

5) Insects Summer brings mosquitoes and other insects that can bother your dog just as much as they bother you, sometimes more. Make sure you dog is taking preventative heartworm medication if you live or are travelling to an area where heartworm is present.