1) Ensure the trail is dog-friendly.
2) Check your dog’s ID tag to ensure it’s secure and your name and phone number is current and accurately displayed
3) Have a basic first aid kit (bandages, tweezers, ointment, bandanna).
4) Bring a leash, collar and waste bags (nothing ruins a hike more than stepping in dog poop).
5) Have both your vets and an emergency vet’s phone number on you.
6) Have a photo of your dog.
7) Bring plenty of water (and a collapsible water bowl if your dogs won’t drink out of a bottle).
8) Do research on the trail to make sure there are no snakes or the trail is a good fit for both you and your dog’s physical capabilities/limitations.
9) Don’t let your dog drink from a puddle or stream (risk of bacteria like Giardia).
11) Monitor your dog and make sure he/she doesn’t overexert him/herself.
12) At end of hike, check for ticks – check out our blog about removing ticks if you find one.
West Hartford Pet Sitters
