IS YOUR PAL READY TO GO?
When you get ready for an activity, you prepare, dress, and pack to fit your plans, but what about your furry friend? Properly outfitting your companion is every bit as important. After all, nothing can ruin your outdoor fun faster than an unprepared dog (or dog owner!) Before you head out on your next hiking adventure, ask yourself these important questions:
HAVE I CHECKED REGULATIONS
FOR DOGS IN THE AREA WE’RE VISITING?
Know whether dogs are allowed before you arrive. Maintain control of your dog(s) and leash them if necessary. And always remember to pick up after them.
IS MY DOG IN PHYSICAL CONDITION
FOR THE TRIP?
Just like their human counterparts, dogs need some conditioning before taking on a physically demanding adventure. Make sure to take small outings first and gradually build up to extended jaunts.
DO I HAVE PLENTY OF FOOD AND
WATER FOR MY DOG?
Keeping your active dog well hydrated is crucial, especially in warm weather. Active dogs burn a lot of energy, so pack the essentials with you. Ruff Wear collapsible food and water bowls allow you to feed and water your dog without carrying a clunky dish or sharing your water bottle. Use the cinch top bowls to pack food. Let your dogs carry their own food and water in their pack.
DOES MY DOG’S PACK FIT CORRECTLY?
Matching a pack to the dog’s size is key. A properly fitted pack will not shift or rotate, and the saddlebags should not drag on the ground. The pack should be tightened, but should allow for two fingers between the dog and the body of the pack.
IS THE LOAD I’M PACKING APPROPRIATE FOR MY DOG TO CARRY?
Most dogs are capable of carrying 25-30 percent of their body weight. However, you’ll want to work up to this. Begin with an empty pack and work into heavier loads as your dog gains strength and endurance. Be careful NOT TO OVERLOAD your dog.
AM I PREPARED FOR THE
WEATHER AND TERRAIN?
Mother Nature can be temperamental. Just as you bring additional layers for the weather, it’s important to consider your dog’s comfort as well. If the temperature drops suddenly, dogs with thinner coats will benefit by using a Ruff Wear jacket to preserve core body temperature, while heavier coated dogs may need an outer layer to keep warm during rest stops or overnight campouts. To protect your dog’s all-terrain drive system (aka their paws) consider using a set of Ruff Wear Bark’n Boots™.
And lastly…have fun!
www.ruffwear.com | 888-783-3932
