What a fun adventure it is to hit the trails and enjoy nature with your hiking buddy. This is a wonderful bonding time where you and your dog (or cat!) can share a unique experience together. Hiking (and walking) is such an important part of your pet’s health.

The Basic Gear Required for Hiking or Backpacking with Your Dog

The Dog Pack

• Have your dog fit properly for their own pack. Measure the circumference of your dog’s chest around the widest part of the rib cage. Adjust all the straps on the pack so it’s snug but not too tight.
• Ahead of hiking, your dog should practice wearing the pack that is empty around the house so that they get used to it.
• Once wearing the pack is routine then add a few pounds to the pack evenly on each side.
• Gradually increase pack weight to a maximum of 25% of body weight as a guideline but you will need to account for age, size, and strength of the dog. If you are not sure, check with your veterinarian for guidance.

The Rest of the Gear

• First Aid Kit for Pet Health. Some items to think about:
  • Saline solution for washing out eyes to avoid infection in case some debris gets into them.
  • Paw Wax to help with scrapes or injury to the paws or ears.
  • Anti-inflammatory medicine in case of injury. This will need to be discussed with your veterinarian.
  • Vet wrap for open wounds or cuts.
  • A muzzle in case your dog gets injured. Adrenaline and shock can take over and your pet may be unpredictable. It’s best to muzzle a dog that has been injured to prevent injury to you or to themselves. Make sure to size it appropriately in advance so you’re prepared.
  • Water purification tablets.
  • Emergency blanket for extra warmth for an injured dog.
  • Emergency food rations for you and your dog.
  • Rope can come in handy for a variety of reasons.
• A leash, collar, harness, and pet tag all with your dog’s name and your contact info.
• Hydration is of the most importance! Take along a collapsible water dish and always take more water than you think that you will need.
• Snacks that contain high calorie content for energy.
• Dog booties in case paws get sore or injured.
• A tick key in case a tick hitches a ride along the way. Be sure to check the dog really well after the hike for any ticks. This handy tool can help remove ticks as soon as you see them on your dog.
• Styptic Powder to stop minor nicks, scratches and cuts from bleeding.

Where to Get Your Gear

Planning ahead makes for the best experience possible. Have fun creating wonderful memories together with your furry family members!

Supporting your pet’s health by offering healthy pet food to support your pet’s nutritional requirements plays a huge role in the stamina that your pet will need to go on long hikes and to be a healthy pet overall.

Visit your local Pet Planet to get your kit built. Our stores offer many of these great products that can make your hiking trip that much more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Talk to an Ambassador about what you’re doing so they can best help you get everything you need.