Hiking with my dogs is an experience I have cherished for years. Every month I plan a hike with my Labrador Sonny and enjoy it to the fullest. After my first dog Sam succumbed to the injuries he suffered at the hand of a moose, I take special precautions in safeguarding my adorable canine friend.

A hike in the wild is filled with dangers. Knowing about dangers is one thing, however, protecting yourself against them is a different matter altogether. I still feel remorseful about that very incident and take every precaution possible to make sure that something like that never happens again. I have learned from my experience that a dog needs proactive and real-time protection on a hike. With a few tips of my own, I would like to enlighten you on the dangers of the wild and how to overcome them.

Prevention of Waterborne Diseases

Water reservoirs like canals, rivers, and ponds are frequently contaminated with a parasite called Giardia. Though dogs have a strong stomach, they are still susceptible to this parasite. It is always better that you bring your own water supply with you on a hike. You can invest in a water dispenser which provides a reliable and easy way to store your dog’s water. It sometimes may become necessary to drink water from natural water resources, so instead of drinking water straight from a pond, boil it, and provide it to your dog for drinking purposes. Keep a battery powered kettle with you for the times when you run out of stored water. Taking these precautions will go a long way in safeguarding your dog from infections.

Protection from Wild Animals

It is not always the bigger animals who pose as a threat to your dog, critters like snakes and porcupines that are abundant in nature are the real dangers. Apart from wildlife, poorly trained dogs accompanying other hikers pose as a major threat. In order to prevent your dog from getting hurt by other animals, discourage him from wandering on his own. Attaching a bell on your dog’s collar is a great way to know about his whereabouts. Take notice of any fresh scat marks and footprints to learn about the presence of a dangerous animal in the vicinity. In case you are in a rattlesnake country, always keep your dog on a leash and do not rest close to fallen logs, rocks, and boulders.

Protection from Plague

Rats, squirrels, and mice are typical plague carriers. Do not allow your dog to chase after rodents on a hike. A bite from a plague carrier can infect your dog and make him very sick. Even dead rodents pose as a threat, so do not let your dog get too close to them.

Prevention of Damaged Paw Pads

Dogs love to run bare feet, but they may damage their vital paws while doing so. Buy a pair of hiking boots for your dog to prevent damaged paw pads. Once I had to carry Sonny all the way back to my car because he damaged his paw pads. It was one of my worst experiences ever on a trail.

Protection from Wildlife Traps

Wildlife traps are a major hazard for hikers and their dogs. Since I learned about how dogs can become ensnared and even killed by these traps, I have made it a habit of learning about the trapping regulations in the areas I visit. These traps are mostly found at trailheads and in areas with easy access to the roads. Keep your dog on a leash, especially if you are in trap infested areas.