First Aid Tips for Your Dog on a Hike

Dogs, like people, can have issues on the trail requiring some canine "first aid". Check out these great tips offered by the makers of Kriser for keeping your pet happy and healthy trailside. Above all, the best remedy to avoid many of these issues is to keep your pet on a leash at all times (and trails through many areas require this, so check ahead of time).

Our Australian Shepherd "Katie" enjoys Shenandoah National Park

To ensure you and your dog have a safe trek on the trails, Brad Kriser, healthy pet expert and owner of Kriser’s, a multi-unit retailer specializing in all-natural pet food and supplies, offers the following advice on what to do—and what to bring— in case your dog does one of the following:

·         Ingests harmful water – Lake, pond or stream water can be toxic to your dog if ingested. In some cases, it creates Giardia—an infection in the small intestines. If your dog drinks contaminated water, give him treated, fresh water to try to flush his system. If symptoms occur, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain or fatigue, visit a vet for additional treatment.

·         Injures a paw – If you discover a cut on your dog’s paws, soak the paw in sea-salt water, remove any debris and use a disinfectant to clean the wound. Bandage the wound with three layers of rolled gauze in a taught manner. Use an anti-inflammatory spray, such as Dr. Rose’s Remedies Skin Treatment Spray, to help the irritation.

·         Is stung by a bee – The first thing you should do is look for the pest/stinger to remove it. Be sure not to break it or more poison might go into your dog’s blood stream. Clean the area with a baking soda and water paste. If the irritation continues, consult your vet about giving your dog an over-the-counter antihistamine, like Benadryl, to counteract reactions.


·         Walks through a poisonous plant – If your dog comes in contact with poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac, do not touch his coat until you are wearing protective gloves. Even though a dog’s coat adds a great layer of protection, vulnerable spots with less hair, like the ears and stomach, can react to poisonous plants. To help prevent infection, bathe your dog in warm water, using a mild shampoo and rinse thoroughly to remove the plant’s oil. If your dog continues to itch, consult a vet about an antihistamine.


·         Gets bit by a venomous snake – The best way to react is to stay calm and immediately find a veterinarian. Restrict movement in your pet as much as possible, even if it means carrying your dog. Do not try to treat the bite yourself by applying ice, removing the venom or applying a tourniquet. If you are nowhere near a vet, a snakebite kit can also be used.  Other preventative options include snake aversion training or vaccinating your dog against snakebites.

If your dog is in the appropriate shape, have him hike with his own pack, carrying a first-aid kit with supplies. This is especially important if you plan on hiking or camping in a location that’s not close to medical help.

Being Considerate of Others on the Trail

We share the trail not only with woodland companions but with other hikers, hunters, wanderers, pets

etc. It's important that the outdoor experience is enjoyed not only by us but also by others. The video by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy has good tips for showing consideration to others. Some other tips to consider -

1. The Leave No Trace Principle of Planning and Preparing. By planning your hike so you arrive at the right time, you won't disturb others by a late night arrival. If you find you will be arriving late or just like to night hike, plan to camp out somewhere away from those who will likely be sleeping when you arrive (maps are helpful if your itinerary changes). I was not happy when I found someone setting up a tent right behind mine way past hiker midnight (after 10 PM), shining a headllamp and waking me up. We are not all on the same time table.  

2. If you are leading a large group, like scouts, a youth group, etc, plan to stay away from other individuals. Groups, not matter how hard leaders try, are always noisy Do your homework ahead of time as to where your group will be staying on the trip. Consider alternative ideas and perhaps scout out locations ahead of time. Plan to split up the group if the camping areas will not work. Be flexible in your planning.

3. Watch your pets. Although you may love your dog and feel he or she won't hurt a flea, there are hikers that are genuinely afraid of them and don't wish to share shelter space with a dog, etc. Plan to stay out in your tent and make sure your dog is on a leash when encountering other hikers. Don't assume your dog will get along well with other hikers and with wildlife.

4. Cell phone useage. Do your talking away from the shelter or other communal areas, overlooks, or other hiker gathering places. Many hikers come to the woods to get away from man made devices. Use headphones when listening to music. Think about those around you.