Take Your Pup to the Trail

originally posted on The Outside Way

Isn’t it the best when you get to do fun things with your best friend? Your dog thinks so too! One of my all time favorite pastimes is hiking with my dog. We try to get outside for a long nature walk once a week. She pulls me up the hills. I let her sniff the bushes. She helps me feel safe. She gets to billy-goat around on the rocks. When she stops for water, I’m reminded to stop to hydrate and check out the scenery too. When she starts to slow, I boost her with encouraging words (of course she understands me!). When I start to slow, she affirms me with a wayward glance back and a quick lick on the leg. We both end up at the top, panting with foolish grins, and relish in the accomplishment.
Spending quality time doing an endorphin producing activity helps create strong, lasting bonds between you and those you love, two legged or four. Be sure to check trail regulations before you go to make sure dogs are allowed. Also, check the weather (too hot is very dangerous for dogs!) and give your dog a bath soon after you get home (that poison oak they rubbed up against? you don’t want it on yourself!)
Before you head out, make sure you bring the following:
For yourself:

• Water
• Snacks
• First Aid kit
• Hiking shoes
• Flip flops
• Sunscreen
• Sun hat
• Trail map

For Fido:

• Water
• Water bowl
• Biscuits
• Leash
• Tags
• Car carrier
• Towel
• Favorite Toy

Happy hiking!!