Preparing your dog now for summer hike is a good idea

Dear Readers,

While I was shopping for a collapsible water bowl for my dogs last week, I met a woman who was outfitting her dog in preparation for summer hiking adventures. Her dog, a lovely two-year-old Newfoundland girl, was having difficulty staying awake while her owner pulled various bits of doggie travel gear from shelves.

"Come on, Rose! Please stand up. Mom needs to see if this fits you."

It reminded me of a harried mother outfitting her child in camp gear.

It also reminded me of my own dog, Jenny, many years ago, when I was on a similar mission to outfit her for hiking in the great outdoors. Back then, outdoor dog gear was just becoming available and the options were slim.

Collapsible water and food bowls were just the start for Rose. She was also being sized for a backpack, two different types of leashes, rugged terrain boots, a reflective collar, a sun hat, a "Pooch Flotation Device" (life preserver) and, last but not least, a raincoat with a hood.

The shopping list also included two drinking bottles, a dog bed that folded for easy packing, insect repellent made especially for dogs, a first-aid kit and, last but not least, a selection of freeze-dried organic treats and food.

When I asked where she was planning to go hiking with Rose, she told me she'd rented a cabin in Algonquin Park for the month of June and intended to spend days canoeing and walking, and evenings snuggled under the stars with her favourite things: a bonfire and Rose.

The scenario she described sounded wonderful, but Rose splayed on the floor, didn't look terribly enthused.

"Oh, she'll be excited when she finds out where we're going," she said. "I'm buying all this stuff now so we'll have a few months to practice."

I thought Rose's owner was smart to plan well in advance and Rose, while seemingly unimpressed, would have a grand time on her vacation as well as over the next few months as she slowly prepared by increasing her physical endurance and becoming accustomed to all the new outdoor gear.

All dogs can hike, regardless of their breed, age or physique. Some, like retrievers and other "outdoorsy" types, are naturally built for the job of quickly covering long distances and navigating challenging terrain while others are better suited to shorter hikes on flat terrain with more frequent rest stops.

Regardless of breed type or body condition, we're just emerging from a long winter and many dogs have succumbed to couch-potato status. If an outdoor adventure is on your calendar, book an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss your plans.

Even perfectly healthy dogs such as Rose need regular vet checks plus extra checks prior to embarking on activities that require a sound, healthy body. The veterinarian will concentrate on issues such as heart health, body weight, and general physical condition as well as possible vaccinations and other preventive products for diseases that may be more prevalent in the area you'll be visiting.

When she's given a clean bill of health, slowly increase exercise sessions. Take her to off-leash locations to work on recall (comes when you call) and other basic commands. An obedient dog is in everyone's best interest, and wildlife will thank you, too.

If you're planning to have your dog wear or use any gear that is foreign to her, introduce those items well in advance to give her time to acclimatize. Backpacks, boots and other garments can be worn around the house and on daily walks. If a new diet will be used during your trip, avoid tummy upsets by mixing them into regular food in advance.

There are a growing number of companies offering outdoor group trips for dogs and their owners. Even if you plan to travel solo with your dog in the future, group outings can be a great way to discover new trails, learn hiking skills and meet like-minded people. One popular group, Dog Paddling Adventures (www.dogpaddlingadventures.com), organizes activities year-round, for people and dogs of all ages, interests and skill levels.

The last time I saw Rose's owner, she was standing in line at the cash register with Rose sitting by her side. The term "happy campers" came to mind. Outdoor vacations are a wonderful way for dogs and their humans to enjoy quality time together.

Email jacque-newman@rogers.com with a question, comment or suggestion.