10 things to bring on your next hike with your dog
Dogs make wonderful hiking buddies, and their joy of being outside is infectious. However, if you’re going to bring the pup along for a hike, it’s important to prepare properly and have the right gear.
Here’s a packing list to make sure you are prepared to keep your dog safe and happy on the hike:
1. LEASH AND COLLAR/HARNESS
Having a leash, collar, and/or harness is important to keep track of your dog and ensure its safety. It will also identify your dog as a pet, and if it’s colorful it will help your dog be seen from a distance. On that note, don’t just bring the leash – use it where required. Remember, just because your dog is friendly doesn’t mean a dog on a leash that they’re trying to greet is.
2. IDENTIFICATION TAG AND/OR MICROCHIP
These things will help you reunite with your dog if you get separated on your hike. Be warned – not all GPS devices for dogs work when the cell phone connection is gone. Use a device that fits your needs if you’ll be spending time far from cell towers.
3. COLLAPSIBLE BOWL
These bowls will make it easy to give your dog food and water. They are also easy to transport. Lots of these bowls also have carabiners so you can attach them to your backpack or the dog’s leash.
4. WATER
Bringing water for your dog is essential. The American Hiking Society suggests bringing at least eight ounces of water per dog per hour of hiking. But remember – dogs can spill their water, too. It’s never a bad idea to bring more than you’ll need.
5. FOOD
Bring nutritious snacks for your dog and feed them regularly to keep them energized energized. According to the American Hiking Society, it’s better to offer your dog smaller amounts on a more frequent basis to “prevent the discomfort of exercising on a full stomach.”
6. FIRST AID KIT
The American Hiking Society says you should bring hydrogen peroxide to disinfect cuts, scissors, bandages and gauze pads, tweezers to remove objects from wounds, and a sock or bootie to protect a wounded foot.
7. TOWEL
Your dog will most likely get muddy, wet and dirty on a hike, especially if they like to play in the water. Bringing a towel is a great idea to clean your dog off before they get in the car. The towel can also be used to cool your dog off if they are suffering from heat stroke.
8. DOG WASTE BAGS
Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog on hikes. Plastic bags will allow you to pack the waste out with you.
9. AN EMERGENCY CARRYING DEVICE
There are devices that are designed to help carry dogs should they become immobilized. Find one that best fits your needs and keep your dog’s size in mind while you make your selection. It’s also important to consider how you carry your other gear so that you can purchase one that doesn’t conflict with that.
10. PROPER CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR
If your dog has short hair, it may not fare too well in cold weather. Same goes for hiking during the rainy season. Bring layers and footwear to match conditions and terrain if needed, including items like coats, waterproof jackets and foot booties.