Taking your dog on a hike? Here's why you should keep them leashed
Here's a refresher on the dos and don'ts of hiking with your pet.
Fall is a great time to take a hike. And when we hit the trails, many of us will be bringing our pets along. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor explorer or a newbie, you may want to get reacquainted with trail etiquette for pet owners.
For starters, your dog will likely want to roam free, but it's important to keep them on a leash.
"Dogs that run off a trail may scare a bear back onto the trail," Patrick Connor, CEO of Ontario Trails Council, told The Weather Network in an interview in 2021.
"[Your dog] may come into contact with any number of wild animals that it won't be able to cope with."
And it isn't just wildlife: Dogs that wander through unmaintained areas may pick up seeds from invasive plants, and help spread them around.
Another thing to keep in mind: on many trails, trapping is allowed. An unleashed dog could wander off and get entangled in one, leading to possible injury, distress, and vet bills.
Before you head to any trail, check if pets are allowed, and if they are, keep them leashed and clean up after your furry friend and properly dispose of any waste you collect.
That's the best way to ensure everyone is able to have a safe and enjoyable hike.
Thumbnail image courtesy: Getty.
