Share:

Hiking with your favorite canine allows both of you to exercise, enjoy fresh air and sunshine, and strengthen your connection. As much fun as hiking with your four-legged friend can be, there are concerns and precautions your veterinarian will want you to consider before hitting the trails. Knowing the potential risks to your pet’s health will help keep your animal safe.

4 Health Issues Your Veterinarian Wants You to Consider

1. Dehydration

Just like humans, dogs can become dehydrated during physical activities from excessive perspiration and lack of water. Fatigue, panting, and a dry nose or gums are all symptoms of a dehydrated dog. Keep your pup hydrated by occasionally stopping to rest in a shaded area. Bring a collapsible bowl and enough water for both of you.

2. Tick-Borne Illnesses

veterinarianTicks carrying Lyme disease and other illnesses can attach themselves to your dog if it wanders into areas with high grass. Prevent your canine from contracting tick-borne illnesses by researching tick rates in the hiking region. Check for hiking trails in other areas if the rate is high. Protect your pet further by having their veterinarian vaccinate them against these illnesses.

3. Lack of Contact Information

Your dog can run off and become lost due to a variety of factors, including getting spooked by a wild animal or changes in the weather. Confirm with your veterinarian that your dog’s microchip features up-to-date information. If your pup isn’t microchipped, have it done before heading out for a hike.

Make certain the dog’s collar is secure and includes a tag with your contact information. It’s also a good idea to keep your dog on a leash.

4. Heat Stroke

Dogs can suffer from heatstroke, especially ones with Brachycephalic Syndrome. These breeds have short noses with narrow nasal passages, such as pugs and boxers.

Avoid brisk walking if you own a brachycephalic breed or have an older dog who becomes winded easily due to trachea problems or breathing issues. Take frequent breaks and provide plenty of water to sidestep heat exhaustion symptoms such as extreme panting, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

 

Trust your furry friend’s health to Dr. Robin Pongracz at Dr. Robin’s Housecall Veterinary Services. This mobile veterinarian has 12 years of experience and provides house call services to pet owners throughout Denver, CO. Her service offerings include microchipping, basic wound care, ear cleaning, bloodwork, and heartworm tests. Call (970) 217-1260 to schedule an appointment. Learn more about this veterinarian online.

tracking