Fall is a wonderful time for hiking. Recently Pico and I took a two day adventure to Yosemite National Park. Perfect time. Very few people, compared to how summers can be, it was void of the masses.
It is so important to obey the rules. It's not a right for your dog to be in the wilderness, it's a privilege. Don't jeopardize that privilege for yourself and others by ignoring prohibitions on dogs or leash restrictions. Always make sure you know the rules for the area you want to hike in. Dogs are not permitted on National Park or National Monument trails. National Forests may allow dogs on their trails, but there are exceptions, so check first. Dogs usually are allowed on wilderness area trails but, again, check to be sure.
Yosemite National Park will allow dogs kept on leash in certain areas, they are not welcome on all trails or in all camping areas, regardless we found enough to keep us busy for two days. This was not even the tip of the iceberg, because we were in the valley. The park has 1200 acres. Just make sure of the individual park rules before you arrive.
The first day we arrived about 11 a.m., we drove and took light hikes until sundown. All tolled, we hiked, in segments, 2 1/2 hours, the rest we traveled by car from site to site, jumping in and out of the car and taking photos and doing some short walk-abouts. We walked along pristine mountain streams, up winding paths, over logs and under logs. Ah, the simple adventures we found. To a four month old puppie there were many new sounds and smells. Dogs are no different than people. They must be in shape before undertaking a strenuous hike. If you're not sure about your dog's fitness level, start off small and then work up to longer hikes. Make sure that all of your dog's vaccinations and medications are current, including rabies, bordatella, and heartworm. If you're hiking in an area with Lyme disease, ask your vet about vaccinations. Even though Pico is still a puppie he has an advantage because he walks with me daily "on the job", and has built up to it. He did very well and is such a good little hiker, we look forward to longer and more advanced hiking.
There are areas that he was not able to go to, this allowed time for him to nap in his kennel in the car. The temperature this time of year safely allowed for just that. I packed his favorite chew toys and blanket to keep him company inside. He knows it is a good place and he is happy to nap there. He does not bark when left, if one has a dog who does this it would not be something you would want to do, even for short times like I did. Be a responsible dog owner. Another thought, I always carry extra water from home so he is not having to change water, that avoids another stress of travel. Pack your dogs water with you to keep them hydrated.
You always want to watch what they are picking up to chew on. I am always surprised at what puppies find. For the most part that is controllable. Keep in mind Pine needles are bad for there stomachs and intestinal tract.
I always carry and use my doggy waste bags. Remember "Pack it Out". It is not healthy for the park wild life or their environment. I could see people are just as un-caring, leaving their dog waste in the woods as they do in the cities. Have you ever wondered why they bother to pick it up, in the bag, then leave it bag and all?? Guess some things never change.
You can find dog friendly accommodations. They all require a pet fees. From $10.00 to $100.00. Depending on which you choose. We chose to sleep out of the park and stayed at the Comfort Inn in Oakhurst, $10 pet fee. The rooms were very clean, nice comfortable beds, and they have a delightful continental breakfast. Jodi the breakfast lady was great and very friendly, thank you, Jodi. We will be staying there again. Oakhurst is near the south entrance of the park. This allowed us an early start and we worked our way back up to the valley. Seeing the sites as we went. Don't pass up anything, may turn out to be be the best spot ever.
Happy, Safe Hiking and Traveling with your Dog!
Check this site out.
http://www.hikewithyourdog.com
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