1. Train for the Trail
Before you begin hiking with your pet, consider whether hiking is appropriate for the animal. Dogs generally enjoy these outings, while cats and small animals probably won't. Remember that your pets may need to get into shape for long hikes. If your pet is overweight or sedentary start, with short walks to build muscle and stamina before setting out on longer excursions. Mental preparation is as important as physical conditioning. For example, if your dog is highly reactive to people or other dogs, some training to improve it behavior might be in order. While you may have the trail to yourself on a back country hike, you will probably have to share shorter hiking trails in state and local parks. Finally, make certain that pets are allowed in your hiking destination and know the site's rules regarding fees, leash lengths and other issues.
2. Pack a Punch
Preparation and packing are keys to making hiking safe and fun for you and your pet. Take along water and light snacks for your pet. If the hike will be long and strenuous, add some infant electrolyte supplement to your pet's water to replenish electrolytes lost during physical exertion. Bring an extra collar and leash in case your regulars get soiled or broken. Include in your pack a first aid kit with bandages, antibiotic ointment, cortisone ointment, antihistamine tablets, tweezers and a liquid bandage product to use on split pads. Have your pet up to date on vaccinations, heart worm preventives and flea and tick protection before you hit the trail.
3. Good Citizenship
Help keep parks and trails open to pets by practicing good citizenship on the trail. Pick up and pack your pet's waste. On an overnight backpacking trip, bury your pet's waste away from trails and campsites. Keep pets leashed in collars they can't slip out of. Use conventional rather than retractable leashes. Retractable models do not allow good control and can become entangled easily in brush and around the legs of other hikers. Do not allow strangers, especially children, to approach your pet until you are in control of the animal and can keep the visitor safe from bites and scratches.
