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Keep Your Dog Healthy on the Hiking Trail

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Taking your dog hiking can be extremely enjoyable, and it's great for their health to get some added exercise. However, making mistakes on the trail could endanger your doggie, so follow this simple guide to make sure that their health is never put in jeopardy.

Understand the Capability of Your Dog

Dogs usually have enough enthusiasm to suggest that they're ready for anything, but that isn't always the case. It's up to you to gauge whether a particular hike is going to be too much for them, and there are a few standard things to consider. A smaller dog might not want to go as far, and even those with high energy levels might find certain terrain difficult. Thick coated dogs are more suited to hiking in cooler temperatures, or at least under shade, whereas dog's with small amounts of hair will struggle in the cold.

Be Vigilant Against Ticks

Ticks can spread diseases and cause illnesses, so make sure you keep your dog away from the trail during seasons in which they tend to be prevalent. Even outside of those times, make sure that you thoroughly check your dog when it comes off the trail.

Use your fingertips to search the dog's coat. Ticks are mostly found in front of the front legs, but can appear all over, even in places you might not expect, such as between the paws or under the collar. Should you find one, use a pair of fine tweezers to pull it out. Grasp close to the skin, and avoid putting pressure on the tick's body.

Keep Protected  

Keeping your dog vaccinated is always important, but it becomes even more vital if you're going to head out on the trail. Additionally, ensure that flea and worming treatments are up to date, and keep and adequate stock at home. It's all too easy to pick up those pests when you're exploring the great outdoors. Just ask your vet whether any additional vaccinations or treatments are needed.

Water Safety

Dogs dehydrate much faster than humans, so make sure you carry plenty of water – or a water treatment kit – when you're engaging in longer hikes. Remember that dogs need to be protected from unclean water as much as you do. Try to stop them drinking from rivers, puddles, and lakes. The best way to do this is by supplying plenty of your own water. Bring a collapsible water bowl to make life easier.

Protect the Paws

The pads on a dog's paws can take a beating, but prolonged walking and running on difficult terrain might still cause injury. This is especially true when you're hiking through rocky landscapes, but is also an issue with ice, snow, or intense heat. Dog boots provide good protection and last for a long time. However, some dogs don't take to them. If this is the case, just make sure that you stop every once and again to check for cuts, scrapes and bruises, and pay attention to the dog's gait.

Enjoying the trail with your four-legged friend can be great fun if you take sensible precautions like those listed above. However, if your dog suffers any kind of injury on the trail then make sure to take them to a vet as soon as possible.  

For more information, check out companies such as Kingston Animal Hospital.


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