OUTDOOR
HIKING WITH FIDO How to make the most of the trails with your pooch BY SARAH MCMANAMAN Expert dog trainer at Sublime Canine Services, and avid dog hiker in Dartmouth, NS CALLOFTHEWILDCANINES
30 Outdoor Summer 2021
CALLOFTHEWILDCANINES
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ummer is finally upon us and there is truly no better feeling than hitting the open trails with your dog. It just feels right. Not to mention it is one of the best things you can do for your own physical health and mental wellbeing not to mention your dog’s. Here are some considerations before taking to the great outdoors with your dog.
TO LEASH, OR NOT TO LEASH? There is nothing I love more than watching dogs romp around in the forest, truly enjoying life to its fullest. That being said, it might not be appropriate for all dogs. You need to truthfully ask yourself: is it safe to let my dog off-leash? If the answer is yes, then go for it! If the answer is no, that is OK too. Dogs can still have an excellent outdoor adventure while on-leash. You can get a good harness and hands-free leash and start exploring. You could also try using a long line (which can come in lengths of 10, 15, 25, 30+ feet) to give your dog extra room to stretch those legs and sniff around while still having a safety line attached to them.
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