|
|
|
- Protect against heat exhaustion and hypothermia.
- Be sure to keep your dog cool and hydrated in warm weather, but remember they can still overheat in cold weather too. For trips in warm weather, consider using the Ruff Wear Swamp Cooler™ dog coat, which uses evaporative technology to keep dogs cool for hours. For cold weather trips, consider insulating your dog against the cold with a coat such as the Ruff Wear Cloud Chaser™. It’s also good idea to pack a blanket or bed if you will be sleeping outside to help keep your dog warm on cold or breezy nights.
- An overloaded or oversized pack can lead to exhaustion.
- A pack should carry no more than 25-30% of your dog’s weight, depending on the health and fitness level of your dog. Start by conditioning your dog with small, light loads and gradually work your dog’s way up to heavier loads. In addition, pay special attention to sizing the pack. A properly fitted pack will not shift or rotate, but will allow you to get two fingers between the dog and the body of the pack. Keep your eye out for spots of wear or irritation that may indicate you have the wrong size pack or have fitted the pack incorrectly.
- Remember that just like you, your dog requires conditioning prior to a long, physically demanding workout. If you are carrying about 25-30% of your weight, and your dog is doing the same, chances are they will outlast you, but be aware of signs of exhaustion such as panting, red gums, vomiting, or confusion.
- Hydration is a priority.
- Don’t forget dogs need extra hydration on their adventures, even if it’s cold outside. Be sure to pack lots of water. Or, if you have a Ruff Wear Palisades Pack™, fill up the included bladders and let your dog carry their own water.
- While natural water is often plentiful, some natural watering holes can contain bacteria and chemicals harmful to your dog. It’s a better idea to bring your own water along just in case.
- Protect dog food from getting wet.
- The best way to protect dog food from getting wet is as easy as using Ziploc bags and tucking them away in your own pack, or your dog’s Ruff Wear pack which has added protection against water penetration. These steps will prevent water from getting in, but will also keep unwanted critters out food and other items in your pack.
- Make your dog visible.
- If you are headed out with your dog during hunting season, be sure to arm him with visibility. The Ruff Wear Track Jacket™ or light up Beacon™ is a great way to help protect your dog from danger, as well as provide visibility in low light to spot your dog in case he wanders off during a midnight bathroom break.
- Be wary of parasites.
- Always cloak your dog with a guard against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other parasites that carry illness and cause discomfort for your dog.
- Don’t forget dog owner etiquette.
- Remember to always pick up after you dog, even in the wilderness.
- Prevent your dog from becoming a nuisance by restraining high-strung or easily distracted dogs from other animals and people.
- Be sure you have the strength and capability to control your dog at all times. The Ruff Wear Flat Out™, Roamer™ and DoubleBack™ leashes have great waist-worn options that allow control while leaving your hands free. It’s not a bad idea to carry a spare leash and collar with you as well, in case one breaks during your trip.
|
|
|
|
|
