Spring and summer are the perfect time to get back to nature. After being cooped up this past year and all winter folks are ready to get out and get some fresh air, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, and get some exercise in the process. Who better than to join you on your adventures than your four- legged quarantine buddy?  Of course, some planning should always go into each excursion you take with your fur pal. Bring plenty of water for both of you, snacks, bug repellant, sunscreen (yes for Fido too) a first aid kit, waste bags and most definitely a leash. During your planning make sure you identify areas to hike where your dog is welcome, most National Parks will not allow your dog on every trail, state and local hiking spots may be much more pet friendly but only if your dog is leashed.

Protect your pup. Leashing your dog is important for his safety and the safety of wildlife in the area. Do not let him run through foliage or play in the water for his own well-being.

Note weather conditions.  On the day of the hike make certain you check weather conditions, being from Colorado I know conditions will change in a heartbeat and what starts out being a perfect day can end in a life-threatening weather situation. Is it too hot or humid? Remember dogs will keep going to the point of collapse. If it is too hot or too humid wait for a cooler day to bring your pup along.

Is he up to the challenge? Make certain the ease or difficulty of the trail is kept in mind for the safety of both your dog and you as a hiker. Is your dog older, overweight or is he a Brachycephalic breed such as a Pug or a Bulldog? They tend to overheat more easily than other breeds. Likewise, a dog that is too young is at risk since he has weaker bones and may yet have an underdeveloped immune system.

Call the doc. Since you will not have a vet handy when you are on the trail it is important to recognize and be able to treat common pet emergencies. The first aid kit is for both of you but can pack a proper kit for hiking with your pooch? Important things to have for Fido include antihistamine gel caps in case of a sting, a cooling collar, and a dog towel in case of a downpour. Consider taking a pet first aid class to be able to recognize signs of distress and to be able to treat common hiking maladies.

Are your boots made for walkin’? You know the importance of a great pair of hiking boots but how will you protect the pads of your companion’s paws? A good pair of dogmocs will protect against hot paved trails, cuts from sharp rocks, thorns, and cold weather too.

Pack it in, pack it out. There are some great dog packs on the market but keep in mind your pup is not a pack mule so only have him carry his essentials and the pack you choose should be fitted properly to him so as not to chafe, slip off but also allow him to easily breathe. And remember to leave no trace when hiking, if you bring it in with you pack it out and dispose of any garbage or filled poop bags.

With proper planning, the correct equipment, and some good old fashion common sense your dog will make the perfect hiking companion and together you’ll be safe and happy enjoying the great outdoors together.