More Hiking Tips

Each week, my brothers and I try to add tips to whatever Mom publishes on her facebook notes. This week, we're at a loss. She posted tips about swimming with your dog, and we all hate the water. Our only experience with water, besides baths (which we all hate except Chubbs), is the ocean. Chubbs and I wouldn't go near it, and Muggsy tried to chase it back by barking at it and attacking it. I won't even go outside when it rains!

So I thought I'd add another hiking story. We have lots of those. But I'm not as disgusting as Muggsy, rolling around in dead raccoon. A few years ago, we spent the Fourth of July at Big Bear Lake to flee the fireworks that take over our neighborhood (even though they're illegal in Redondo Beach). We decided to go hiking, just through our neighborhood, to see the sites. After about 15 minutes, I practically collapsed, laid down in the street and refused to get up.

Remember that if your dogs aren't used to altitude, they need time to adjust. Just like you, we can't get as much oxygen to our blood until we have had a chance to acclimate. Take it slow and take lots of water breaks. Let your dog tell you when it's time to quit. Don't push it because "they have no problem walking six miles at home." My mom recently read a hiking tip that said, "Don't be obsessed with how far you need to get when you're hiking with your dog." It's true. Unless you take us out every time you go hiking, we don't have the same stamina that you do. Don't push us.

And be sure to watch for warning signs, such as heavy panting, seeking shade, lying down and seeking water. If you pull the skin around our neck back, and it doesn't snap back into place, we're dehydrated. If you touch our gum, and it doesn't immediately return to its original color, we're dehydrated.

Be careful, and have a great summer with your dog! Love, Fenway