Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Dogs

6 must-have first-aid items when hiking with your pets

Debbie Clason
By

As far as your dog is concerned, hiking with you is like going on a walk — only 100 times better. Although you might be the only one taking in the scenery, your dog is taking in beauty of another kind, i.e., all the different scents he doesn’t get to smell on your leisurely stroll around the neighborhood.

It takes more effort to prepare for a hike, no doubt. In addition to all your gear, it’s important to make sure your dog is equipped, too. So, along with his hiking booties, water supply, harness and leash, and poo bags, don’t forget to pack first-aid items for him. With a little planning, you can put together a comprehensive first-aid kit that has the essentials you both need should any accidents happen on the trail.

yellow dog on forest trail
Kerkez/Shutterstock

Basic elements

If you do a lot of hiking, you probably carry a first-aid kit in your backpack with some basic items. If your kit doesn’t already, make sure it includes the following items to use in a canine emergency.

  • Alcohol wipes. Use these to clean and disinfect any minor cuts, scrapes, or burns, just as you would on yourself.
  • Tweezers. These are effective for removing cactus spines from your dog’s paws as well as insect stingers and ticks.
  • Benadryl. Administer 1 milligram per pound of bodyweight if your dog has an allergic reaction to something he encounters on the trail, like a sting from an insect or a snakebite. (If he starts having difficulty breathing, begins to vomit, or has diarrhea, seek medical attention for him immediately.)
  • Gauze pads. Use these with vet medical tape to wrap an injured paw pad or limb, especially if there is an open wound.
  • Vet medical tape. This tape sticks to itself but not your dog’s hair or skin. Because it’s self-adherent and flexible, it’s great for wrapping a sprained or injured limb.
  • Anti-bacterial pain-relieving ointment. Just as with humans, it’s not uncommon for dogs to get a few cuts and scrapes while hiking in rough terrain. Use the same ointment you would use on any abrasions your dog receives, after cleaning and before you apply the gauze and vet tape.
Recommended Videos

backpacking yellow lab

What else to pack

If you’re planning a longer hike or simply want to be prepared for everything, consider packing these additional items in your supplies:

  • Bandana. Wet this with water to use as a cooling rag if your dog overheats or as a muzzle if his injuries cause him to become frightened enough to bite.
  • Emergency carry harness. If your dog isn’t small enough to carry in your arms, consider adding an emergency carry harness to your supplies. The straps on these slings slip over your shoulders so you can carry your dog like a backpack.
  • Veterinary-approved nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Regular over-the-counter pain medication isn’t suitable for dogs, so ask your veterinarian what type of canine NSAIDs she recommends for your kit. These are effective in reducing pain and swelling.
  • Saline eyewash. This is effective to have on hand if your dog happens to get sprayed by a skunk or the wind blows dirt or debris into his eye. It works for human eyes, too.
  • Styptic pencil. A badly broken nail can bleed a lot. Be prepared. The powder will sting when it first hits the injured blood vessels, so hold your dog’s paw firmly when applying.

Before you hit the trail …

If this is the first time you’re taking your dog on the trail, remember: Dogs are obedient, eager animals who can’t tell you when they’ve had enough fun, so start slowly. Begin with short, easy hikes so you can gauge how your dog handles uneven terrain. Be mindful of the temperature and choose the coolest times of the day, especially during the heat of the summer months. Watch closely for signs of distress, including exhaustion or overheating. Monitor your dog for a few hours after your first strenuous hike to see how long it takes him to recover.

Related

With a little patience, your new hiking buddy will be conditioned for this activity in no time, and you’ll have a companion that’s eager to accompany you at a moment’s notice. Hiking is good for our bodies, our minds, and our moods. Adding a dog to the equation just makes it that much better.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Debbie Clason
Debbie Clason
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Debbie Clason's work has appeared in Family Life Magazine, Sports Illustrated, The Lutheran Witness, Massage Magazine…
Why won’t my dog bark? Here’s when pet parents should be concerned
Can't figure out why your dog won't bark or if it's a problem? Here's what we dug up
A Dalmatian howls outdoors

A dog that doesn’t bark often, or at all, seems like a dream come true to pet parents (and their neighbors). In reality, a quiet dog can be cause for concern, especially if a previously noisy pup suddenly becomes quiet. If you have a quiet pet, you might wonder, why won't my dog bark?
Look no further. In this article, we’ll give you the reasons why your dog may have stopped barking and what to do if you are concerned. Remember, even if your dog’s lack of sound isn’t from a serious health issue, you can’t go wrong with asking your trusted veterinarian for advice.

When do puppies start barking? What does it sound like at first?
According to Certified Canine Behavior Consultant Mikkel Becker, puppies begin vocalizing around 2 or 3 weeks of age. At this early stage, you’re more likely to hear whines and grunts. When your puppy reaches 2 to 4 months, these vocalizations will start to turn into barks, though each dog reaches milestones at their own pace. If you’re worried about your pup’s vocal development, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian to rule out any potential issues.

Read more
Is your old dog not eating? It probably has nothing to do with hunger
Older dog not eating? Common explanations and what you should do
Overhead shot of dog paws and a bowl of kibble

Your dog is not only your best friend, but also a member of your family. Sharing your life with an old dog is a joy and a privilege, and you've most likely been through a lot together through the years. Just like the bump in health issues, we see in human senior citizens, an increased risk of health problems is also common in senior dogs.

Older dogs frequently experience changes in their eating and sleeping patterns, such as sleeping more often or a decrease in appetite. If you have an old dog eating but not drinking water, or an old dog sleeping a lot and not eating, it's time to bring your senior pooch to the vet for a checkup. Here's what you need to know about an old dog not eating, from why it happens to what you can do about it.

Read more
Is your old dog shaking? 1 of these 6 problems may be the cause
Luckily many of the conditions that cause old dog shaking aren't life threatening
A rhodesian ridgeback with a gray face stands and looks to the side

Some of the smallest breeds of canines — Chihuahuas in particular — are known for their tendency to tremble, but it can be a bit startling when your old dog starts shaking suddenly. Especially if they're a larger breed or have no history of tremors, you might find yourself taking to Google: "Why is my old dog shaking?"
Just like with any health condition, there’s more than one cause for this symptom. Your old dog’s shaking may or may not have anything to do with their age, though it’s not uncommon for older dogs to develop issues that result in tremors. Whatever the cause, you can help your senior pup stay happy and healthy with your keen eye and lots of TLC. If you’re concerned, don’t ever hesitate to contact a trusted vet, either. That's why they're there!

Are weakening muscles the cause of your old dog shaking?
As dogs age, it’s common for them to lose muscle mass — regardless of their diet and exercise regimen. One way weakening muscles present themselves is through instability and shaking, especially in the legs.
You may see your pup’s neck muscles start to atrophy if their head seems to bob or tremble (it may also be time to switch to a lighter collar). A quick checkup from your vet will make sure that your dog isn’t in pain, and they can recommend therapies or medications either way. Every pup has their own journey!

Read more