Hiking With Fido

Do you enjoy hiking? We have some beautiful spots in this area, such as Spring Creek Canyon Trail and Bonneville Shoreline. Your canine companion will most likely be thrilled to accompany you as you explore or revisit them. Fido makes a great hiking buddy! However, you’ll need to take precautions to keep him safe on the trail. A Springville, UT vet offers some advice on this below.

Pack It Up

Even if you’re just taking a short stroll, you’ll need to bring a few things with you. Water is the most important one. You should also have a first aid kit, a multi-tool, some treats, and waste baggies. If it’s hot, bring a bandana as well: you can wet it and tie it around Fido’s neck to cool him down.

Paws For Thought

Trails can do a number on your furry pal’s feet. Sharp rocks, thorns, and even tar and asphalt can all cause painful burns and blisters. Clip Fido’s nails before heading out, and use paw balm to protect his paw pads.

Stamina

Hiking is great exercise, but it’s not right for all our canine pals. Very small dogs will tire out pretty quickly. Hiking may also be too strenuous for senior pooches, puppies, nursing mamas, and pets with chronic pain or medical issues. Ask your vet for more information. 

Preventative Care

Fido should be microchipped, wearing ID tags, and current on his vaccines and parasite control. Consider getting a GPS tag, especially if your pup is prone to running off after squirrels.

Leashes

Your and your dog could encounter a variety of wild animals on the trail, including some that are dangerous. Make sure Fido obeys basic obedience commands. It’s also important to keep him close. Retractable leashes are very popular for hikes, because they allow Fido more room to roam while still preventing him from running off. However, they can be dangerous in certain situations. We wouldn’t recommend using these close to rivers, cliffs, or other hazards. Ask your vet for more information.

Explorations

Spending time in The Great Outdoors is a wonderful way to relax and center yourself. Man’s Best Friend also loves exploring and sniffing things. Just pay close attention to Fido, and make sure he’s getting plenty of water and rest breaks.

Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your local Springville, UT pet hospital, today!