Hiking with your dog somewhere in the mountains may sound like a great idea. You can already imagine all the fun you and your dog could have. But before you book that hike, there are a few things you need to have in place. Use this checklist to prepare yourself and your dog for the big adventure.
1. Crucial training
To some people, this might sound obvious, but not all people realise that a dog accompanying his owner on a hike should have some basic training. This is mainly for your dog’s own safety. If he doesn’t have a good recall, doesn’t drop things on cue, or isn’t well socialised, then you need to get all of these skills in place before you go on your adventure. If your dog suddenly chases after something, you want him to respond when you call him – this will help to keep him safe.
2. Find out which places are safe
There are various hiking trails that will allow your dog to accompany you on the hike, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the area is safe for dogs. Will your dog be able to walk or run there? For instance, if you have to climb a set of rope ladders, how will your dog get to the top?
3. Rules and regulations
Once you have identified a few hiking trails, research the trails to see what the terms and conditions are, specifically regarding your dog. For instance, will your dog have to be on a leash the entire time?
4. Wildlife in the area
Find out as much as you can about the wildlife in the area. What kind of poisonous animals can be found in the vicinity? Are their predators or dangerous baboons in the area? This will help you make a decision about your dog’s safety.
5. Up-to-date vaccinations
The next step is to think about your dog’s health. Make sure that all his vaccinations are up to date, especially the rabies jab. Depending on the area, there may be rabid animals around, like mongoose or jackal.
6. Vet visit
Very importantly, your dog has to see the vet before you go. The vet will evaluate your dog’s health and fitness levels to give you an idea of whether or not your dog should go on a hiking trip. To help your vet come to a conclusion, give him as much information about the intended hike as possible. Listen to your vet. If he says that your dog is too young, too old or too unfit to take on an adventure of this kind, then don’t take your dog on the hike.
7. Know the route
Once you’ve booked a hiking trip, you need to get a lot of information in advance. This will help you when you are planning for your trip. At the very least, you need to know the following about the trail:
- Journey distance How far will you travel to get to the starting point of the trail? You need this information to plan adequate stops for your dog and yourself.
- Trail distance Find out what the distance is that you and your dog are expected to cover each day to complete the trail on time. This will also help you to plan ahead regarding food and water.
- Accommodation Where will you sleep? Will it be in an overnight hut or in your tent? If it is in an overnight hut, you need to know what facilities are on offer.
- Water points Are there any potable water points along the route? If there are dams or rivers, you need to know what the quality of the water is.
8. Weather conditions
Weather is unpredictable, especially in the mountains. But at least find out what the average expected temperatures and weather conditions are for that time of the year. Then, pack accordingly.
9. Tick and flea prevention
Always use preventative treatments for ticks and fleas whenever you go hiking in long grass. At the end of each day, you will have to inspect your dog thoroughly for any ticks. If you don’t know how to remove ticks safely, then you need to find out before you leave on your trip.
10. Equipment check
First, make a list of all the equipment that you will need for the hike. Then, you will have to check each piece to ensure that it is still safe. For instance, if you will be crossing rivers, your dog will need a life jacket. If you have one, you need to ensure that it is still intact and safe for use. And don’t forget about your dog’s leashes. Make sure that they are all intact and won’t snap easily.
