Angels Rest

Angels Rest offers year around hiking, but is a hike for the more experienced dog. It is only a little over 4.5 miles but has an elevation range of 170 to 1590 ft. It is one of the most popular hikes in the Gorge, and ends with a fantastic view. You will need to make sure you have plenty of water, and a collapsible bowl for Fido on hot days as there is only one stream that can be counted on for cooling Fido off in. The forest along the trail is thick with Douglas Firs and Big leaf Maples, and if you take Fido on this hike in the spring a abundance of wildflowers litter the trail, but keep in mind there is no shade along the summit. Near the top is a good place to take a break and unpack your day pack and have a bite to eat and enjoy Coopey Falls. When you reach the top you will have a spectacular view of Portland Basin, Vista House, and Beacon Rock. There are some rough spots along the way to the top and you may want to consider (depending on how well conditioned your dogs pads are) putting his booties on to protect his pads. If you and Fido are up to it this hike can easily be extended by pushing on through to Wahkeena Springs (2.5) or father on up to Wahkeena Falls (4.2 ) it all depends on your skill level, and weather or not you have the right gear for yourself and Fido. So make a day of it, get out and on your way don't forget the camera.

Getting Fido Fit & Keeping him Fit for Hiking

You should start Fido's fitness program with a trip to your vet to make sure Fido is up to fitness training standards, and doesn't suffer from any hidden issues such as Hip Dysplasia...after he is checked over start the fitness program out slowly with a 30 min. walk/workout session everyday that ideally will include some jogging or running later on (that depends on you). You will also need to re-acquaint Fido with the rules of proper leash behavior during this half hour session...there is nothing worse on the trail than a dog that is pulling and not keeping to his side of the trail,and doesn't understand simple basic commands..not to mention dangerous in certain situations.Its also important to teach Fido the "off trail" and "wait" commands. These commands will aid you in getting Fido off of narrow trails to allow others to pass, and to stop him cold and avoid potentially dangerous situations.. During this workout you will be helping Fido build muscle tone, lung capacity, and a healthy circulatory system...not to mention you will be aiding in the conditioning of Fido's footpads, and you will be creating a stronger bond between you and your future hiking companion. Making sure or teaching Fido to swim is a must to aid in keeping him cool. Older dogs just like older people need a little extra time getting going so keep that in mind and discuss hiking with your vet to make sure you're doing all you can do to keep Fido happy and healthy. Hiking is a great way to bring you together with your dog, and all it takes from you both is a little time and practice.

First Aid Kit for Fido

Just like you Fido needs a first aid kit when going on long hikes or camping trips...you wouldn't leave home without one and neither should he. Most dog breeders recommend you have one around the house period if you have a dog. A canine first aid kit is as important as his leash or your hiking boots. You can either purchase a canine first aid kit or assemble one for your pooch it's completely up to you...and if you decide to put one together yourself here are some ideas of what should go in one. Remember the most important thing you can pack...is the knowledge on how to use the items you pack.

• Tweezers
• Multifunction tool
• Plastic digital thermometer
• Panty hose to be used for a muzzle when and if needed
• A handkerchief for washing scrapes, cuts, and other wounds
• Lightweight nylon fabric to use as a stretcher, shade or shelter
• Dog Booty
• Chemical cold pack
• Emergency blanket
• Heavy duty gloves to protect you from being bitten
• Betadine
• Benedryl or another type of antihistamine
• Entic-coated aspirin not ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Veterinary wrap
• Gauze bandage
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Neosporin or some other antibiotic ointment

Now of course you wouldn't need all of this for a quick run to the park so use your best judgment when taking smaller hikes or day walks and how much stuff you want to pack...maybe Fido could carry the whole thing in his doggy backpack.

Warrior Rock Trail

This is another one of those perfect afternoon day hikes to take Fido on. So grab up the leash, poop bags, fresh water, and water bowl for Fido and head out to Sauvie Island and the Warrior Rock Trail. You will need to purchase a parking permit (this holds true for all Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife trail heads on the island), and you should be able to obtain one from the 7-eleven store in the quaint little town of Linton. Because this trail is part of a wildlife refuge Fido will need to remain on his leash at all times. This is an easy 6 mile walk that should take right around 3 hours. The Warrior Rock Trail meanders through cottonwood groves and grassy pasture land along the Colombia River to the lighthouse where in 1792 Multnomah Indians greeted Captain William Broughton and Captain George Vancouver. The trail weaves back and forth between the Columbia River and pasture land, and is unmarked. On a warm afternoon you will meet with a lot of families out for a day at the beach, and fisherman. Letting Fido swim is tricky business along the Columbia the River has a fierce current, and letting Fido roam the beach could lead to poisoning from rotting Salmon best to leave him on his leash and keep him safe. So make a day of it out on Warrior Rock Trail, and don't forget the camera for some great photos.

Tryon Creek State Park

This little gem of a park is hidden away in the hills of southern Portland, just a bit north of Lake Oswego, and makes for a fantastic hike/walk for beginner dogs year round. The 645 acre state park is covered with almost 4 miles of super easy trails that takes around 1.5 hours to cover. Keep in mind it is a state park so Fido will need to be on a leash that is no longer than 6 ft. long, and don't forget to bring along some poop bags to clean up after Fido. If your expecting solitude on this trail forget it...you will be sharing it with a lot of folks and their dogs, people on horseback, and on some trails people on mountain bikes. The trail wanders through a Maple an Alder tree forest, and crosses Tyron Creek on a sturdy bridge that has both Chinook and Steel head Salmon swimming in its waters...Remember to keep Fido away from any spawned salmon, but if he is up for it certainly let him play in the water, and cool off. The trail comes to an end on Iron Mountain, and this is where you head back the way you came. This park offers a quick fix to and makes for a perfect afternoon escape to the woods for you and your canine companion.

Powell Butte

Powell Butte is a great beginners hike for dogs that don't have any experience. This is a year round park with great views, and an easy grade. Powell Butte is only 4 miles round trip, so it can be done in about one and a half hours. Fido will have to be on a leash for this one, as the park is also used by people on mountain bikes and horses, and lots of other people walking their dogs. You will also have to have fresh water for Fido and a collapsible bowl for him to drink from, don't forget he poops you scoop. Powell Butte Park sits on top of an extinct volcano, and is mostly open meadow where you can see (if lucky) Kestrels and Redtail Hawks hunting in the grassy slopes. This is a great hike that is close to home and perfect for any Sunday morning to get out and shake off the cobwebs. Don't forget to grab the camera and get some shots (on a clear day) of the five Cascade Peaks you can see from the top.

10 Things

Camping or Hiking with your dog should be as much fun for him as it is for you. Fido needs his own gear just as much as you do in order to have an enjoyable and safe journey. There are so many hikes for you to take with your dog I think it's important to point out the top ten thing that you need for Fido.

1. Obedience Training: Your dog training should begin at puppy hood, training to obey his master, learning to get along with other people and dogs that you will meet along the way. Ill mannered dogs should stay home.
2. Doggie Back Pack: This is an essential part of the program. Your dog should be able to share some of the load in carrying his own food, water, and other gear he may need. A proper fit and load is very important.
3. Canine First Aid Kit: You should be knowledgeable in Canine First aid...find a first aid course and take it, and research canine first aid.
4. Food and Treats: You always want to pack a little extra kibble for Fido as he will be burning extra calories just as you are...treats are a good thing for a little added energy.
5. Water and Collapsible Water Bowl: Don't ever assume that you will have fresh water for Fido. Bring enough water for him. Dogs are able to catch Giardiasis just like you.
6. 6 ft. Leash, Harness and/or Collar: If Fido due to area regulations has to remain on a leash at all times it is best to use a harness, and you should have at least 6 ft. of leash to restrain him in camp.
7. Insect Repellent: You will want to be very careful when applying repellent to Fido. Don't apply anywhere he can lick, and keep it away from the eyes, nostrils, and mouth. Recommended that you use DEET free repellents.
8. I.D. Tags, Photo, Microchip: If you become separated from Fido you will need to have identification and photos to help you find him.
9. Dog Booties: Tenderfoot dogs will need the aid of booties on the hike, or if it is going to be a long hike even the most experienced dog will need the aid of booties for his paws. Booties are something you will need to get your dog used to well before you hiking trip.
10. Bio Bags for Fido Along with A Little Shovel: You either have to pack it out, or bury it...the choice is up to you, but either way you need to scoop after Fido and not leave it on the trail.
    

The Right Stuff

So...your taking Fido on a 3 day hike...you got everything?...lets see...food...food dishes...leash...feces relocation equipment...what about his booties?...That's right booties. Would you go hiking for 3 days on rough terrain or hot terrain with out foot protection for yourself?...I don't think so. Your dog's pads maybe don't need as much protection as yours do, but for rough ground, and extreme conditions Fido is going to need footwear.

Its not something you can just buy and slap on Fido's tootsies and give a whistle and hit the trail...no your going to have to have a getting used to period and some trial runs.

Confer with someone in your local camping or hiking store to find out which shoe and what size your going to need. Remember to take Fido along for a fitting...Happy Trials To You!

On The Trail

Hiking with a dog is great and lots of fun, but you need to keep in mind that dogs mean more gear. You will need to get Fido gear to aid him in packing along his own gear...food, fold able food bowl, booties,leash,and of course poop bags. Oh the wondrous invention...The Dog Backpack... yes dog back packs come in many different sizes to fit small and large dogs alike. They are durable and made to last in bright eye catching colors, but most importantly they are made with your dogs comfort in mind, and they need to be comfortable...A dog carrying his own gear is no different than you carrying your backpack...comfort is key to a happy experience.

You can find all the dogie hiking and camping necessities at the same place you would find all the gear you would need for yourself. So shop around and take Fido along to find a perfect fit, and talk to people who know what gear is going to work best for you and your dog.

Hiking or Camping with Mans Best Friend

It doesn't matter what dog breed you have. I don't know of any dog who doesn't love to go for a romp with his owner, and I personally can't think of anything more fun than taking my dog out for a hike or a walk...it just seems to add to the over all outdoor experience. The pure joy that oozes from his little dogie self is amazing, and he is always up for a walk...literally all I have to do is take his cold weather K-9 coat or daily wear Web Master harness down from the peg rack, and he is right there amping to go....but wait there is one thing no self respecting dog owner should be without...weather your taking Fido for a romp in the park, or hitting the trails and forging your own outdoor adventure...don't forget... Fido poops you Scoop on the trail and in camp, so don't forget the proper gear for that...Now packing loose bags can be done but what a hassle, and they take up room in your day pack that could be better used for something else...not to mention they aren't easy to get to when you need them. Ruffwear has a durable little attachable bag holder that goes right on the leash and holds up to a couple days worth of bags, and if your heading out for a couple of days...let Fido carry his own gear...Ruffwear makes great doggy back packs!...now your wondering what to do with the poo...well it has to be packed out or to the nearest garbage can...sorry but hey lets keep it clean out there.