Thinking of hitting the trails this summer? What better way to enjoy an adventure than with your furry friends? Hiking with dogs is a great way for both owner and pet to exercise and enjoy nature. However, as the weather warms up, preparing for a safe hike is crucial. That means making sure not just you, but also your dog, is ready to face the heat. This article covers tips to keep your dog safe, healthy, and hydrated while hiking.

Gearing Up: Preparation and Hiking Gear for Dogs

The first step of hiking with dogs is the preparation. Depending on the season, more preparation may be necessary. It’s always important to map out your route and check the weather forecast while hiking. However, it’s even more crucial when bringing your pooch along in the summertime. Heat exhaustion occurs quickly in dogs, especially in certain breeds. Double-coated dogs, dogs with a black or dark-colored coat, and dogs with shorter muzzles tend to overheat faster than other breeds. Yet, no matter your dog’s breed, it’s important to avoid exceptionally hot days with little cloud cover and map out your trail to avoid getting lost and prolonging your dog’s exposure to the heat.

While hiking with dogs, in addition to thoughtful planning, purchasing and bringing along hiking gear for dogs may be beneficial in keeping your pup cool. Gear such as a cooling vest can be dampened and worn by your dog to lower body temperature. On the other hand, a dog hydration pack allows your dog to carry their own water in the form of a harness. While having the right gear is essential, nothing is more important than access to drinkable water for your dog. That’s where Aquatabs come in.

Aquatabs: The Best Way to Purify Water for Dogs

Carrying water while hiking can be heavy and awkward for both you and your dog. Because of that, every hiker knows that figuring out the best way to carry water while hiking is crucial, even more so when hiking with dogs. But with Aquatabs, that worry is a thing of the past. Aquatabs is the perfect hiking water purifier. After being dropped into your water, the small, portable tablet works by dissolving clear in minutes and disinfecting your water in thirty minutes, making safer and drinkable water available on the go.

You may be wondering, “Can dogs drink purified water?” The answer is yes, dogs can drink water purified by Aquatabs! Aquatabs are safe for owners and their dogs. That’s why it’s perfect for carrying water while hiking with dogs. No more worrying about the best way to carry water while hiking or weighing your dog down with heavy water bottles for the whole journey. This hiking water purifier will lighten your load without compromising safety. Aquatabs has you and your dog covered, no matter where your adventure takes you!

Why Lake Water Can Be Dangerous for Dogs

Many hikers believe that dogs can drink from any natural water source, such as lakes or streams, without ill effect. During a hike on a hot summer day, it can be tempting to let your dog cool off or drink from the nearest lake or stream. But harmful bacteria pose just as much of a threat to your dog as they do to you. That’s why, when hiking with dogs, caution and knowing how to identify potentially dangerous water are important parts of your hiking preparation. 

A common lake water contaminant in the summertime is blue-green algae. Blue-green algae, which is actually a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria, forms blue-green patches on the surface of lakes. It is often described as looking like spilled green or blue paint or even pea soup. Blue-green algae can grow at any time of year, though it is most common during summer or early fall. While this bacteria is dangerous for humans and dogs, it is particularly dangerous for dogs because of their smaller size and tendency to swallow water while swimming. Swallowing a small amount can prove fatal to dogs, meaning, while hiking with dogs, it’s important to survey any lake before allowing your pup to cool off. 

Other common dangers found in lakes include bacteria and parasites such as Giardia and leptospirosis, both of which can cause intestinal issues, stomach pain, and possibly more serious side effects such as fever, weight loss, and more. While you cannot identify these contaminants by eye, keeping watch for signs of dangerous water, such as dead fish on the surface, can help your dog stay both cool and healthy. And, to ensure peace of mind and safer water, utilize Aquatabs before allowing your dog to drink water from any natural source. 

Quick Tips while Hiking with Dogs

Hiking with dogs is a great way to connect with your furry companions while staying active and enjoying the outdoors. We’ve covered how to prepare for your hike, important gear such as a dog hydration pack, and how to treat and identify potentially dangerous water. Now, let’s cover some last tips and tricks for hiking with dogs. First, make sure to give your dog water periodically throughout your hike. This will help keep your dog consistently hydrated throughout the hike. Second, take frequent stops in the shade to let your dog rest, especially if your dog has a dark coat. Third, if you happen to be carrying water-based snacks such as watermelon or cucumber, dogs can safely enjoy these foods with seeds and rind removed! These treats can help provide your dog with extra hydration. And lastly, bring along some extra Aquatabs. Your dog may not say thanks, but those happy, healthy, and hydrated tail wags sure will!