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Part 1: Planning and Conditioning

  Do those sad eyes follow you across the room from their perch next to the door? Does that incessant pacing make you feel guilty?  The best solution for the springtime blues is to take that dog for a hike. Hiking with your dog is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have with little Rex, Buddy, or Rosy, if you plan it right.

Starting in April 2002, my cure for the springtime blues will consist of a 2600-mile hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. The PCT covers a variety of terrain conditions, from Mojave Desert sands to high sierra glacier crossings, and should take approximately four months to complete.   Moe, a 16-month-old 45 lb. German shorthaired pointer cross, is probably the best trail partner I have ever had.  Aside from being a well-trained hunting dog, she is an excellent trail companion with extensive backcountry experience. As part of the planning phase of the trip, I made a few pre-hike tests, which have reemphasized these tips I received from vets and experienced dog packers.  Adhering to these guidelines will definitely improve your dogpacking experience.

 1.         Taking your dog on the trail is a big responsibility and requires a little more planning than a solo trip.  Train your dog in trail etiquette, clean up after them, and keep them on a leash.  If you think leashing is a hassle, try chasing them with your pack on, or standing around trying to figure out which way they went, or worse, packing out an injured dog.  If you are planning an extended trek, definitely take the pooch out for a test hike.  An overnighter or 3 day trip is enough to give you a good idea of what to expect and what you forgot.  I planned on Moe sleeping in the vestibule on the PCT, but a strong overnight storm on my prehike convinced me she needed tent space as well. After letting her in the tent I woke up in the morning all wet and covered with ticks (I hate ticks!).

 2.         Before setting a paw on the trail a stroll to the vet is a must, where vaccinations should be brought up to date and overall canine health is given a good once-over.  Ask the vet about giardia and lyme vaccinations, tips on feeding, and pick up extra 1st aid supplies.  Moe received a clean bill of health and a bag of goodies, and was ready to hit the trail. 

3.         Keep in mind your dog is relying on you to provide food and water.  I have to double Moe’s normal ration of high energy NutroMax™ when hiking, and like to add a few vitamins in for good measure too.  Adding protein powder or oil to the food is also a good idea if your dog loses weight while hiking, but add it in gradually.  Water on the trail is another important consideration.  Some people recommend filtering your dog’s water, but as long as it is running clear and fast I don’t really think it’s a problem, especially if you address parasite and potential health problems at the vet (before you leave, remember?).  I always stop at creek crossings until Moe drinks, and when on a dry stretch, I have her heel next to me, thus helping her conserve water and energy.            

 4.         Dog gear is relatively inexpensive and will certainly take the load off your shoulders.  The last thing anyone needs on a weeklong trip is an extra ten pounds in the pack. Body and paw protection is also important if your companion is out of his or her element.  Moe is a shortair, and does not have the insulating coat of a husky.  For her, a waterproof fleece vest is the difference between happy dog, or a cold, wet, miserable, shivering dog (which would you rather have?) 

Sometimes dogs need boots too, especially when packing a load or hiking long distances or over rough terrain.  I consider booties cheap insurance against disaster in the backcountry (and they make for a good laugh around the campfire). 

Up until this point I let Moe ride free, meaning I carried her food for her.  But since this is a really long hike, I figured she could pack her own (and maybe some of mine). I have gone through several packs already, and RuffWear (whose pack won Backpacker Magazines 2001 Editors Choice Award) make the best pack I have seen so far.  They are on the web at ruffrear.com.

 Here are a few hints on dog packs: 

a.         Pick a dog pack with the same criteria you would use to buy a regular pack.  The sturdiness of the straps and buckles are generally good indicators of the overall product quality.  Be sure to adjust the pack and fit it properly.  Dogs are especially prone to chafing from harnesses around the upper arm and armpit, and on the elbows from the saddlebags.  I remember feeling really bad after discovering the damage done by an ill-fitted pack, so keep a close eye on those problem areas.

b.         Load the pack evenly, and start off light, adding more weight every other day.  On multiple day trips, I replaced Moe’s eaten food weight with some of my gear or water, being careful to never exceed maximum pack weight of 1/3 her total body weight (for her sake).

 The extra planning and pre-trip conditioning will ensure a relaxing, fun filled time in the backcountry with your best friend.  Happy tails and safe hiking.

Disclaimer
Hiking and camping are potentially dangerous activities. The author of this document is not an instructor or an authority in any of these areas, or in veterinary science, or in the area of dog training in general. You are responsible for the health, welfare and actions of your canine companion. This document is the author's attempt to pass on information he wished  he had had before he camped with  his dog  the first time. The information is gathered from his personal experience as well as items heard from others.  You should always check with your veterinarian and/or other experts when you are beyond your own area of expertise. The author assumes no responsibility for the use of information contained within this document.

Katrina Aid

Copyright 1996-2005 Jim Greenway

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