in

In The Mountains With a Dog

The mountains have their own rules that hikers with dogs should definitely observe. Good preparation is half the battle on the way to the summit.

If you are planning a trip to the mountains with your dog, you have to prepare well. The hiking backpack not only includes your own provisions, binoculars, and hiking map, but also some accessories for your four-legged companion. Of course, collar and leash come first. Even better than a collar is a harness in the mountains.

It is also better to take two lines with you:

  • a long one for hiking and a short one for a possible rest on the alp.
  • You should definitely attach a sticker or small capsule with your address to your collar or harness: if you are only going on a day trip, your home address will suffice; However, if you spend your holidays in the mountains, it is also advisable to include the holiday address with the length of your stay.
  • A small emergency pharmacy for master and dog: In addition to tick tweezers, disinfectant, healing, and wound ointment, tweezers, plasters, and bandages are important. In addition, a special rubber shoe should a dog’s paw be injured by the sharp-edged mountain stones.
  • Since a hike not only makes you hungry and thirsty, also think of a small snack, a water bottle, and a bowl for your four-legged friend.
  • If you are planning a multi-day tour, do not forget food, a blanket or basket, and towels so that you can wipe the dirty or wet dog off.

Fitness training for humans and dogs

Adequate fitness training is part of good preparation. Train your barking companion with longer and longer walks, first extended by the hour, then half-day excursions, and finally full-day hikes. Even if you are already a seasoned mountaineer, please be sure to take the size and age of your dog into account. A mountain hike, for example, is still too strenuous for a puppy; nevertheless, you could also take him with you in a backpack and only let him walk for stretches. Be sure to inquire about the degree of difficulty and the nature of the terrain before you set off on a tour. Although we two-legged friends can rope and secure ourselves on such routes, this is difficult with dogs. Once these preparations have been completed, nothing stands in the way of your departure. However, please note that your four-legged friend should never hike on a full stomach.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *