Hiking is a great way to get exercise and spend some time in nature. Going for a hike can also be a great way to spend quality time with your dog. Dogs can be wonderful companions for an excursion into nature, but before you hit the trail with your canine companion, keep in mind the following points:

● Just like people, dogs will need to prepare for longer excursions. A dog hiking for the first time won’t be ready to take a 10-mile hike. Ease your dog into it by working up to longer hikes a mile at a time.
● Take extra precautions with dogs who are older and dogs who may have medical conditions.
● Hiking on a trail with other dogs, wildlife and people can be very exciting and distracting for you and your dog. Your dog should have basic obedience training so he or she can walk on a loose leash.
● Follow trail etiquette and be polite to other hikers. Pull your dog to the side when passing other hikers. Always let horses and cyclists pass you first.
● Since they don’t sweat, dogs can overheat very quickly. Remember to bring extra water for your dog, and give your dog time to cool off in the shade on hot days.
● Make sure the ground temperature isn’t too hot; it could burn your dog’s paws.
● Stay on the trail and be on the lookout for local wildlife. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, coyotes, mountain lions and bears could be a threat to your dog and you.
● Provide your dog with year-round protection from fleas and ticks. Use a safe topical medication once a month or as advised by your veterinarian. It can take up to 24 hours for the medication to fully absorb; for large dogs, you may want to put the medication on several places along his or her spine for faster absorption.
● After your hike, check your dog over to make sure he didn’t pick up any foxtails. Paws, ears and noses are common spots for these grass seeds to attach to your dog.
● For more tips, visit the Resources for Pet Owners section on the website www.SBHumaneSociety.org.

For more information, visit the website or call 805-964-4777.