The Thrill of Hiking with Your Canine Companion
Nova LOVES to hike, and I don’t blame her. There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of conquering a challenging trail, the wind in your fur, and the fresh scent of the great outdoors. As a proud dog mom, I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes with my furry sidekick by my side.
Over the years, we’ve conquered the Western New York Hiking Challenge, ticked off our first two high peaks in the Adirondacks, and even scaled the fire tower on Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain. While Nova is a seasoned hiker, the mountain terrain presented some new obstacles that we had to navigate carefully. Luckily, our prior experience and a bit of research ensured we were well-prepared for the journey.
The Essentials for Hiking with Your Pup
Whether you’re scaling towering peaks or enjoying a more leisurely stroll, having the right gear can make all the difference in ensuring you and your canine companion have a safe and enjoyable adventure. From harnesses to hydration, I’ve got you covered with the must-have items for your next outdoor excursion.
Harnesses: The Key to Comfort and Safety
When it comes to hiking, I’m a firm believer in the importance of a well-fitted harness. The number one feature I look for is an open shoulder design, which allows for the most natural movement with the least amount of restriction. For easy hikes, I prefer the Kurgo Journey Air Harness, which has a padded design and front and back rings for leash attachment. For more technical hikes with rock scrambles, I rely on the Ruffwear Flagline Harness, which offers additional support with a second strap on the belly panel.
Long Lines and Exploration Freedom
Long lines are an absolute must-have, whether we’re exploring the neighborhood park or tackling mountain trails. I have a variety of lengths in my hiking pack, but my go-to’s are the 10-foot and 20-foot biothane lines from CSJ Creations. The shorter line is perfect for heavily wooded areas or narrow paths, while the 20-foot line gives Nova more freedom to roam in open spaces.
Hydration: Keeping Your Pup Quenched
While it may be tempting to let your canine hiking companion grab a drink from any nearby water source, it’s crucial to avoid low-flow streams, rivers, ponds, and other stagnant bodies of water, as they can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites, or algae. Instead, I always pack a 2-in-1 water bottle with a silicone top that flips up into a bowl – a convenient solution for keeping Nova hydrated and cool on our adventures.
First Aid: Prepared for the Unexpected
Even on shorter local hikes, it’s a good idea to have a basic first aid kit on hand. For longer treks, I highly recommend carrying at least the most common items, such as tweezers, gauze pads, medical tape, and antiseptic wipes. During our recent trip to the Adirondacks, Nova’s paws took a bit of a beating on the rocky terrain, but a few simple first aid supplies helped protect her paw pads so she could enjoy the rest of the hike.
The GPS Tracker: A Game-Changer for Adventurous Pups
Now, here’s the real game-changer: the GPS tracker. If your dog is spending time off-leash while hiking, a GPS tracker can provide you with much-needed peace of mind in case you become separated. These nifty devices can be connected to a collar or harness and allow you to track your dog’s location via a smartphone app, usually with a subscription fee.
There are several options on the market, such as the Whistle and the Fi, that a number of my fellow dog adventurers use. I would encourage you to do some research, read customer reviews, and find the one that best suits your needs and your pup’s lifestyle. Keep in mind that these trackers may have limited capabilities in areas with unreliable cell service, which can often be the case when hiking in remote locations.
Preparing for the Unexpected: Carry-Out Gear
Accidents can happen, even on the most well-planned hikes. If your furry friend can’t continue on foot, are you prepared to carry them out? Consider investing in a Fido Rescue Sling or a K9 Sport Sack, which can be a lifesaver in such situations.
Paw Protection: Keeping Those Paws Happy
Rocky terrain or winter weather can be tough on your dog’s paw pads. From tears to extreme cold, you may want to consider a set of dog boots, such as the Ruffwear Dog Boots, to protect their precious paws.
Embarking on New Adventures
As we eagerly anticipate our next big adventure, I’m excited to check off the remaining hikes on our 2022 challenge list. If you’re in the Western New York area, be sure to join our SUPERNOVA SCOUTS Facebook group to connect with other dog adventurers and share your own hiking experiences and tips.
Remember, whether you prefer to conquer mountain peaks or enjoy a more leisurely stroll, the right gear and a reliable GPS tracker can make all the difference in ensuring you and your canine companion have a safe and unforgettable outdoor adventure. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to lace up those hiking boots and let the adventure begin!