By Dr Laura Hady
Summer and fall are the perfect time in New Mexico to hike with our dogs. On a recent hike in the Jemez mountains with my three young dogs, I thought about some of the proactive steps and precautions that I take to keep myself and my dogs safe. The following are some tips that I have learned from my experiences and those of my dog clients.
- Do hike earlier in the day with your dog. As the summer temperatures rise in New Mexico so does the threat of snakes, especially the Western Diamondback rattlesnake. While some owners choose to take their dogs to “snake proof” classes, keeping them on a six foot leash helps to lessen the chance of a snake bite. If you hear a rattle or buzzing (think wasp or bee) on or near the trail, take the time to look around your feet. Even if it is just a bug making a noise, you can prevent a life-threatening injury. Also take heed if your dog does not want to go into a particular area, their sense of smell and sometimes hearing is better than humans. Also remember snakes tend to bite legs and go for the dogs neck and chest muscles because they tend to be closer to the ground.
- Don’t forget to carry enough water for yourself and your dog. I usually take my water requirement and double that for each middle-weight sized (25-50#). Part of the water I will use to wet their hair coats. Dogs can only perspire from their foot pads and blow off heat and carbon dioxide when they pant. This results in a much higher chance for heat stress and heat stroke. It is important to sit down and take water breaks in a cooler and safe area if possible. I have a collapsible water bowl for my dogs and often put smaller pieces of ice in their water bottle as they love to play and eat the ice. Dog electrolyte packets are available online and dog specialty stores. I also carry human electrolyte packets for myself, but I mix half a packet in one of my dog’s water bottle. Then I put in a little broth from a small flip top can of either chicken or salmon. These smaller flip top cans can be purchased at grocery stores or the Dollar Tree chain of stores.
- Do have your dog wear a collar and a harness. I like dog collars with the pet’s name and a good number to reach you or another family member in case they get lost. My pets also have a microchip, so if someone finds them and the collar has fallen off, identification can be made at a local animal shelter or veterinary clinic. The best hiking harnesses that I have found for my dogs are those that go over the shoulder blade area, are reflective, and have a handle on the top. This type of harness allows a quick pick up of small dogs if they are attacked, protection of the neck and shoulders, and a quick release if they get caught on a branch. These types of harnesses can be found at dog specialty stores and online (Bolux is my favorite brand).
- Don’t forget the sunscreen or UV protection sun shirt for lighter dogs. Lighter colored dogs are more prone to sunburn and certain cancers such as squamous cell carcinomas. Areas of the body most affected by sun burns and solar radiation include the top of the nose, the ear tips, back, and on the abdomen, especially if they like to lay on their side in the side while you take a water break. Cooling vests for dogs can serve a dual purpose in providing partial sun protection and a cooler skin temperature for your dog. There are many brands available online in local dog specialty stores. My favorite brands for dog cooling vests include Mora, SGODA, and Aliceset.
- Do remember to bring snacks. I like to sit down on my water breaks and enjoy a light snack and so do my dogs. I typically bring them small, low calorie, individually wrapped snacks such as Fuel Good protein bars, BarkWell dog treats, or PawCo Dog Treats. If you don’t have access to these treats, take along a small plastic bag or container with their favorite treat or kibble.
So go have fun this summer hiking with your dogs. Please remember to consult your family veterinarian for specific tips on how to prevent injury in your dog on your hike.
