Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
his own gear! Dogs that are in good shape can carry 30 to 40 percent of their own
weight.
Most packs are fitted by a dog's weight and girth measurement. Companies that
make dog packs generally include guidelines to help you pick out the size that's
right for your dog. Some characteristics to look for when purchasing a pack for
your dog include a harness that contains two padded girth straps, a padded chest
strap, leash attachments, removable saddle bags, internal water bladders, and ex-
ternal gear cords.
You can introduce your dog to the pack by first placing the empty pack on his
back and letting him wear it around the yard. Keep an eye on him during this first
introduction. He may decide to chew through the straps if you aren't watching him
closely. Once he learns to treat the pack as an object of fun and not a foreign en-
emy, fill the pack evenly on both sides with a few ounces of dog food in resealable
plastic bags. Have your dog wear his pack on your daily walks for a period of two
to three weeks. Each week add a little more weight to the pack until your dog will
accept carrying the maximum amount of weight he can carry.
You can also purchase collapsible water and dog food bowls for your dog.
These bowls are lightweight and can easily be stashed into your pack or your
dog's. If you are hiking on rocky terrain or in the snow, you can purchase foot-
wear for your dog that will protect his feet from cuts and bruises.
Always carry plastic bags to remove feces from the trail. It is a courtesy to oth-
er trail users and helps protect local wildlife.
The following is a list of items to bring when you take your dog hiking: col-
lapsible water bowls, a comb, a collar and a leash, dog food, plastic bags for feces,
a dog pack, flea/tick powder, paw protection, water, and a first-aid kit that con-
tains eye ointment, tweezers, scissors, stretchy foot wrap, gauze, antibacterial
wash, sterile cotton tip applicators, antibiotic ointment, and cotton wrap.
First aid for your dog.
Your dog is just as prone—if not more prone—to get-
ting in trouble on the trail as you are, so be prepared. Here's a rundown of the
more likely misfortunes that might befall your little friend.
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