How to have a happy hike with your pet

There are four things that should always be in your backpack when hiking with a pet, said Michael Nappier, clinical associate professor in community practice at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

• Water.

• Water dish.

• Pet snacks. 

• A first-aid kid, including gauze, wrap, antiseptic, and tweezers.

Hiking with a pet more commonly involves a dog, but some people also hike with their cats. Nappier says hiking with a cat isn’t much different than hiking with a small dog.

“Number one, they need to be on a leash at all times,” Nappier said. “They need to be comfortable wearing a harness and being leashed and having leash etiquette. Because of that, they're going to be in your direct vicinity and supervised by you, so animals that might prey on cats like coyotes or birds of prey are not going to be a huge concern because you’re going to be there as a protector.”

Nappier said he fully supports cat owners who want to hike with their pets. 

“If you really want a hiking companion, a cat can be a great hiking companion, but definitely not every cat,” Nappier said. “Just like different people, some of your friends love to go hiking with you and others don't. It's going to be the same with cats. And it's going to take maybe a little bit more interaction and help for your cat to be a good hiking cat. But some cats just aren't going to be that.”

With dogs or cats, Nappier suggests beginning with short, easy, flat trails, preferably at times when fewer people – or other pets – are around. 

Pandapas Pond and the Huckleberry Trail are a couple of suggested beginner trails in the Blacksburg area, but be aware of bicyclists who also use these trails, so Nappier suggests keeping pets on a relatively short leash.

While fleas and ticks are a concern for both dogs and cats on the trail, cats have not been found to get Lyme disease, a tickborne nemesis for both people and dogs. Dogs are also more susceptible to leptospirosis, which can sometimes be acquired drinking out of puddle, pond, or stream.

Dogs also tend to be more active than cats in the woods, more likely to chase other animals or even run off a trail with potential injury. 
 
“We need to think about heat stroke and heat exhaustion and dehydration with dogs,” Nappier said. “And just overexertion, more with dogs than with cats.”

With proper preparation, a dog or cat buddy can add to the enjoyment of the beautiful forests, streams, and mountains we call home in western Virginia.

This fall, join Hokies worldwide for an adventure! From scaling peaks to strolling through your local park, any way you move matters. Register now to secure your Hokie Hike gear and choose from a long sleeve tee or hydration pack.

There are also registration options for kids and pets. Share your adventure and inspire others along the way using #HokieHike. See you on the trail!