Category: Adventure Pup

Adventure Pup Mindfulness Challenge #2

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A few weekends ago I went to a monastery for a silent meditation retreat. It was located in the middle of the mossy woods along the Columbia River. It was beautiful, secluded, and serene. As I pulled into the parking lot and began walking up to the front doors, I had an overwhelming desire to get back into the car and drive straight home to my pup. I was gone just a few hours, but I already missed him terribly. As I was having this thought, I was snapped back to reality by a dog barking. I looked around and saw a small black and tan pup running toward me. She was wiggly and wagging her tail, barking excitedly as I approached. She came up to me and placed her head in my hand, and let me stroke her neck and chest. I was soothed by her presence, and knew that in a few days I would be reunited with my own dog and everything would be ok.

As the retreat went forward and we entered silence, I had several moments where my brain told me to leave. “Just walk out those doors, get in your car, and get back to your dog.” But each time I had these thoughts, Link’s face would appear in my head and I would remember why I was there. My mind and body would settle and I could resume my silent meditation journey. I didn’t realize I would miss my dog quite so much. 

The retreat had a lot of participants. Sometimes it was difficult to find a spot without others, and it was all I really wanted. A place where I could be alone, and focus on my own existence. One of the few places I could find this solace was in the forest. The monastery had about 100 acres of forest land, pieced together by trails, creeks, and trees. I found myself standing in the forest quite often. 

One afternoon, after a two hour seated meditation, I went out into the forest. A lot of others had the same idea as me, and it took some effort to find a solitary place. When I finally did, I was able to just stand and be. I could take in all the green of the moss, grass, and leaves. I could hear the running water of the creek and the birds singing overhead. I could feel the mud squish under my shoes and the cold air sting my face. I could taste the dew and the sweet dirt as my feet stirred up the earth underneath. I could smell everything. It was really a magical moment. And then, my thoughts were interrupted. I could hear barking in the distance. I closed my eyes and listened. I could hear the barking getting closer, accompanied by the soft padding of feet and the light chime of dog tags. I took a deep breath in and opened my eyes. About 20 feet from me stood the black and tan dog, looking up at me and wagging her tail. When we made eye contact, I lightly patted my thigh and she came trotting right over to me. I knelt down and gave her soothing tTouch pets, a special kind of hand placements that can be performed to promote bonding, calm, health, and love. She pressed into my hands and licked my face. I thanked her (silently of course), and she trotted away to resume her afternoon forest jog. 

As I watched her prance away into the green woods I felt a wave of peace wash over me. Though I was trying to take a break from work and my normal life (which is about 98% dog), I was unable to escape it completely. This black and tan pup continued to seek me out throughout our weekend. She popped up while I was meditating on a bench, when I was mindfully weeding the garden, and when I was wandering the grounds. She always made sure to come all the way to me and place her head in my hand. I was unable to speak to her, but that didn’t matter to either of us. The connection was established simply by existing together, and it was strengthened by our bodies touching in a particular and intentional way. 

Adventure Pup Mindfulness Challenge #2- Massage

For our next Mindfulness Challenge we are going to do something that sounds incredibly easy, and possibly like something you’ve done before; giving your pup a massage. 

Every dog is different, but most dogs enjoy the loving touch of their human. Some dogs like head scratches, some belly rubs, and some are all about the butt! Whatever your dog’s preference is, the exercise will be the same. During this challenge, we are going to try to discover something new about our dogs. 

First, I’d like you to take five minutes out of your day and give your dog a bunch of affection. Pet them how you normally do, and pay close attention to their response. Do they get wiggly, excited, calm? Then note your response. Do you get wiggly, excited, calm? How do you both interact and behave in these moments of physical connection?

For the next part of the exercise, I’d like you to wait until both you and your dog are in a calm headspace. Trying this activity while your dog is excited or while you’re annoyed will not work. Try this after a long walk or a Chuck-it session. Perform this task in a quiet room, without distractions or noise. 

Sit on the floor beside them and allow time for you both to relax and settle. This works best if they are laying fully on one side, but any position is ok as long as they are calm. Place one hand on your dog’s shoulder, feel them breathe. Take note of how their body feels under your hand, note their breath, note your breath, and give yourself a moment to absorb. Then use your other hand to stroke their entire body, beginning at their head all the way to their tail. Use a light, slow touch. Some dogs might find this a bit unusual at first (I’m always surprised by how many people only pet their dogs in vigorous, excited movements), but just be patient and allow them to adjust to this new, soft touch. Slow down and ease up. Breathe with your strokes. Slowly inhale as you rest your hand on their body, and slowly exhale as you move your hand across their coat. If they continue having a difficult time with this type of interaction, either lighten your touch or apply a little more pressure. Every dog has a preference, take time to find yours. 

Continue applying light strokes to their entire body, making sure to include the face, legs, and paws (avoid any areas that are sensitive for your dog). After a few minutes, move up to their head and focus solely on that area. Test out different pressures, areas, and movements to see what your dog enjoys most. Watch their body language, feel their breath. Take their ear between your index finger and thumb and slowly drag your fingers from the base of their ear to the tip. Perform light circular pets with just the tips of your fingers to their muzzles, cheeks, and face. Lightly grasp small tufts of fur from the top of their head between your thumb and index finger, then softly pull up on the hair so the skin pulls away from the skull a bit, then slowly release pressure, allowing the skin & coat to drop back down against the head. Do this across the entire skull, breathing in when you pull up and releasing your breath as you slowly release the skin. Keep your mind calm throughout this entire process. Having music or the tv on in the background can completely influence your mind state, so silence is best.

Note how your dog is responding to these touches, and notice how you feel. Are they behaving the way they normally do when you pet them? Do you feel how you normally feel? 

There is a special style of massage called Ttouch, where you perform specific energy releasing pets to your dog. This style of energy work originated with horses, and has been proven to create calm within the animal, help prevent & fight against health issues, and promote a stronger bond between the two of you. The suggestions I give above are examples of some Ttouch practices, but if you would like to learn more I urge you to read Getting in Ttouch with Your Dog by Linda Tellington. It is filled with pictures and detailed descriptions on a variety of different touches. I have been using this method with dogs for many years and it has always given me positive results. Learning this practice will help you further your peaceful moments together and create an even stronger bond between the two of you. It could also help alleviate health concerns such as arthritis, muscles injuries, hip dysplasia, and much more. 

This is one of the most accessible practice, as you don’t have to go anywhere or do anything. All you have to do is sit by your dog and remain calm and quiet. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day of work, and is an excellent exercise to teach children. Each member of your family can easily learn this practice and benefit from it, but children often gain even more from the experience. Children already come with a beginner’s mind, they haven’t been clouded by years of human existence and hard work. They experience wonder and awe much easier and more frequently than their adult counterparts. When given a task like “mindful massage”, they can get really into it and form bonds with pets that they had no previous connection with. This activity could also help kids calm down, experience less anxiety, and feel seen by someone they love. Adults can also gets these benefits from this practice, it often just takes a few sessions to tap back into that beginner’s mind we’ve been neglecting for so long.

Adventure Pup Mindfulness Challenge!

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If you follow Adventure Pup, you may have noticed I bring up “mindfulness” and “being present” pretty often. I’m a big advocate for bonding with your dog and giving them the joy of your attention when interacting with them. I love being able to disconnect from the chaos that is human life, and reconnect with my best friend. His simple curiosities in the world, his tenderness with those around him, his ability to just be. 

My dog Link is an inspiration to me every day. He inspired me to grow my dog care business, to quit drinking, to further my meditation practice, and to live mindfully. He gave meaning to my life when I was at my lowest point, and he continues to give my life meaning every day. My wish is for everyone to find meaning, to find joy, love, & safety in this world. Even if you’re one of those people that find that sentiment “gooey”, “lame”, or “weak” I still wish you joy, love, & safety. And though I know not everyone should have a dog, I wish that everyone could find the joy, love, & safety that a companion animal brings. It’s something pretty special. 

If you have a dog, are thinking of getting a dog, or work with dogs you might benefit from some of our mindfulness activities & practices. In order to help you bond with your dog & find joy in their companionship I’d like to offer some weekly challenges over the next couple of months. These challenges will be simple and might even seem boring at times, but each practice will bring you closer to your pup and possibly closer to yourself. You don’t have to prove to anyone that you did the challenge, simply enjoy the activity with the one you’re practicing with. And remember, it’s a PRACTICE. If you continue to utilize these practices your bond will continue to grow. If you struggle with a challenge, it’s encouraged that you go back and try it again. And again. And again.

(Please note: I am not a meditation teacher or professional. I have been practicing Buddhist Meditation for several years and would simply like to pass on my experiences with others. I have certifications in various fields of energy work, and have found my meditation practice to be beneficial in these areas. If you find these practices interesting/helpful/useful I urge you to look into meditation & mindfulness classes to further your journey. Feel free to reach out to me for any guidance on where to begin.) 

Adventure Pup Mindfulness Challenge #1 – Walking

For your first Adventure Pup Mindfulness Challenge I’d like you to take two leashed walks with your dog. These walks can be your regularly scheduled walks, and should be done on two separate days. 

On the first walk I’d like you to do everything you normally do on a dog walk, but pay attention to what you’re doing. Are you walking slowly, normal, quickly? Do you stop when your dog does or do you keep him moving along? Are you looking at your feet, the sky, your dog, your phone? Do you notice the squirrel when your dog does? Do you notice your dog suddenly pull toward something, but you’re not sure what? Do you talk to yourself, talk on the phone, talk to your dog, or stay silent? Do you praise your dog for desirable behaviors? Do you notice when he performs desirable behaviors? Did you notice that rainbow, that sunflower, that smiley face drawn in the snow? These are all the things I’d like you to take in. If you spend the entire walk face down in your phone, pulling your dog along and getting frustrated when he sniffs, note that. Remember, you don’t have to tell anyone about this exercise, you just have to tell yourself the truth. You are only accountable to yourself.

On the next walk I’d like you to try to stay completely engaged with your dog. Leave all distractions behind: your phone, your kids, your spouse. On a mindfulness walk, the goal is to pay attention to each and every sensation you experience. You walk slowly and note each step. The feeling of your foot touching the earth, your ankle rolling into the next step, your shin taking the impact, your knee supporting your body, your thigh tightening, your belly rising and falling with the breath, your chest rising and falling with the breath, your throat contracting against the cold air, and the bare skin of your face, hands, and arms against the breeze. 

On a mindfulness dog walk you pay attention to all these things, but you also include your dog’s movements in your awareness. You can’t feel what he feels, but you can watch his paws pad at the ground as he walks, hear his tags jingle or his panting breath, feel the nylon leash in your hand. You can connect to him through this awareness. 

Sounds simple? I can assure you it’s not. Before you know it, your mind will be wandering and your thoughts will come pouring in without you even realizing it’s happening. That’s ok, just realize your mind has wandered, bring it back the moment, and start again. And again. And again. And again. Seriously, you will notice your mind wandering very often, most likely between each and every step! Your mind is meant to think, your goal is to note the thoughts as they arise, quiet those that aren’t useful to this activity, and sharpen your focus on those that matter. 

If this activity is giving you nothing but grief, if you notice your mind nonstop wandering or you begin to beat yourself up for having a wandering mind, try going on a mindfulness walk on your own. You can do this in your house or yard if you’d like. Pay attention to you steps and how your body feels. Allow thoughts to come and go. Once you get the hang of it, go get your pup and try a mindfulness dog walk.

After completing the two walks, compare them. Did they feel the same? Did you notice any frustration, sadness, or joy on either walk? Or perhaps after either walk? Did your dog’s behavior change between the two walks? Are you having a hard time remembering the walks altogether? There is no wrong answer. Be honest with yourself. If you noticed a higher level of frustration while holding your phone and the leash at the same time, note that. If you noticed no difference and both walks were equally as exciting or boring, note that. 

Personally, I have noticed that when I have my phone in my hand, or even when I’m lost in thought, I get a lot more frustrated when Link pulls on leash. When I’m actively paying attention to him, he doesn’t pull, because I’m engaged and walking with him instead of separately from him. When I’m walking with my partner and chatting, I notice Link gets bored and begins eating sticks or pinecones. If I’m grumpy or in a rush, Link tends to walk from side to side, cutting me off and bumping into my legs. When I am just with him and leave all other distractions behind, Link is a fantastic walking buddy. He walks at a nice pace, takes time to sniff things, politely says hello to passing dogs, and exhibits all the behaviors I wish for on a dog walk. 

Not every walk I take with Link is a mindfulness walk. I am a human in this human world after all, and I have different moods just like everybody. But when I am able to set aside my human world and give him and our walk all of my focus, I notice an elevation in mood, a strengthening in our bond, and a calmness that pours over both of us. 

Treat Testing- Finding What’s Most Desirable

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Treat testing is a fun and beneficial activity for you and your Pup! It helps you hone in on what will work to keep your Pup’s attention and keeps them always coming back for more!

Do you have a dog that is really food motivated and will eat anything?! Setting up a treat tasting will help you both learn what treats rank supreme and which ones are just ok, as most dogs have a preference. Or you might even learn that anything edible will get their attention, which is great! If you have a dog that seemingly has no interest in treats, presenting them with a treat test will help you both discover the joys of food and might result in them becoming more food motivated! If you have a Pup that is downright disinterested in food rewards, try rewarding them with affection, games, or praise… but I bet if you try hard enough, you’ll find an edible treat they love!

You can pop into your local pet store and pick up things that you think your best friend would enjoy. You could even bring them along and let them sniff something out on their own. Anything your dog doesn’t like can be donated to a friend, family member, neighbor or a local shelter. You can also set up a “treat exchange” with friends- each of you buy two packs of treats and get together for a treat tasting extravaganza! 

When you get home with your new treats, try them out by doing some easy training exercises in your living room and see what your dog is the most interested in. Perhaps they enjoy the crunch of a chicken liver, a moist peanut butter chew, or the or the stickiness of a salmon skin. Every dog is different, so go into this test without any expectations. 

This activity can be done in one afternoon, but is best spread out over several days. You can try out your new treats in a variety of locations with different distractions and see how they respond and which treats they respond to best! This will help you discover what treats will keep your dog interested and listening to you, especially when they are learning new behaviors or cues. Having them skip a meal may be beneficial to you, as most dogs are much more interested in food rewards when they’re hungry. You can either use their breakfast as their reward, or feed them when you are done with the treat test and back home.

Imagine if every time you did a “desired behavior” you were presented with your favorite treat… say every time you get home from a long day of work someone hands you a Butterfinger. The first day home you’d probably be excited “Oh my favorite candy bar! All I did was go to work and do my job and I get a Butterfinger? Awesome!” Going to work might become more exciting, knowing you’re going to get a Butterfinger when you get home (I know, this is a silly analogy but you have to pretend like you have the mind of a dog!) After a few days you’d probably get sick of a Butterfinger as your reward, but then BAM! Day four you get home and someone hands you fresh French fries! “Oh! How exciting! I was getting bored of Butterfinger but now you’ve switched it up and surprised me with a totally different treat! I should keep going to work so I can find out what my treat is at the end of the day!” Switching up the treats, and knowing what your Pup’s favorites are will keep them engaged and interested! 

One very important reminder: the more expensive the behavior you are seeking, the more payoff should be rewarded for the behavior. If your Pup is a pro at sitting when asked, you wouldn’t give them an entire wheel of cheese just for performing a sit in your quiet living room with no distractions would you? So then on the other side of the spectrum, would you give your Pup a piece of everyday kibble for recalling to you in the midst of chasing a rabbit? The reward has to match the effort of the behavior!

And one side note: you may hear some trainers say that treat rewards are lazy, but building a relationship based on positive reinforcement helps your Pup feel safe and creates a trust between the two of you, so they are much more willing to do what’s asked of them. Using positive reinforcement means you are always on the lookout for those positive behaviors and keeps you involved in your Pup’s life, which makes your bond much stronger.

Some treat examples (these may be deemed low or high value, depending on the individual Pup):

  • Kibble
  • Boiled chicken
  • Baby food
  • String cheese
  • American cheese slices
  • Hotdogs
  • Dehydrated meats
  • Carrots
  • Apple slices
  • Training treats
Link will run to the smell of an In-N-Out burger from miles away, but cheese will also work 🙂

Tips for Getting Your Pet Happy and Settled in a New City

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written by Jessica Brody

Moving your pet to a new place is not the easiest thing to do, especially if you’re unsure what your new town has to offer your pet – and if it’ll keep them happy. Fortunately, most pets are generally easy to please; give them plenty of space to stretch their legs and explore in, and you’re already halfway there.

Purchasing the Ideal Home

You’ll have to consider a pet-friendly property first and foremost when choosing a property.

  • Check housing listings to see which property suits you and your pet best.
  • If you can’t see anything that piques your interest, a realtor could help.
  • Try to secure a home in a pet-friendly community to make it easier to get to know others and their pets. 

Don’t Stray too Far from Routine

One thing’s for sure; dogs appreciate routine. In fact, they find comfort and security in routine activities that many of us as humans can take for granted.

  • Stick to a set time when it comes to walking them, feeding them, taking them out to potty, etc.
  • If your dog finds it challenging to settle down into a routine in his environment, you may need to enlist the help of a professional, certified dog trainer.
  • Try to offer them plenty of outdoor play time to exert their energy and minimize their anxiety associated with being in a different environment. 

Make Them Feel Comfortable as Soon as Possible

The beautiful thing about pets is that they don’t ask for a lot to keep them healthy, happy, and content. All they really need are the basics.

Spend quality time with them

Nothing can make your pet feel quite as much at ease as making sure you spend quality time with them.

  • Work from home or take some time off to spend extra time with your pet. This should help you with your stress levels, too!
  • If this is not possible, find a doggy daycare center that will help to nurture your pet when you aren’t able to.
  • Do what your pet likes or would appreciate, such as taking them to a doggy day spa or exercising together.

Keeping your pet happy when moving should be easier when you are more in tune with your pet. So, work on strengthening that bond before you leave, and your pet should be more confident with the transition.

Jessica & her pup

Hiking Essentials

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Running Adventure Pup means I spend a lot of time on the trail with my pups! We hike up mountains, through forests, across deserts, and around water. We’re outside in the heat, in the rain, and in the snow. Over the years we have experimented with a lot of tools and have found some we love and others we could do without. Below is a list of the tools we can’t live without! I have added some link to specific brands, but you’’ll be most successful if you find things that work specifically for you and your pups needs. Keep in mind their breed, build, limitations, and personality. Think about how the two of you interact with each other and the natural environment. 

Collars, Harnesses, & Leashes

It’s always smart to keep a collar with an ID tag & licenses attached when you are outdoors with your pup. Anything can happen when you’re on on the trail, keeping up to date contact info on your pup will help keep them safe if they get away from you. I prefer dog tags that jingle so I can hear my pup wherever they are, but if the noise bothers you, you can get a tag that slides onto the collar and lays flat. Or you could get a collar with your number stitched right in. It’s always smart to keep your pup’s license and rabies tag on them as well, to avoid any tickets or fines.

When on the trail I prefer that Link wear a comfortable harness. It’s not only more gentle on his body than a collar while on leash, it also offers more control and is a safer option when an emergency occurs. If your pup slips down a hill, or gets stuck in the river, a harness offers a handle for you to help them out, rather than just tugging on their neck. I like a harness that offers even distribution across the body. Something with a wider chest and back plate are a little more comfortable than a simple nylon strap harness. I prefer a harness with a front and back clip for more versatility and control.

I also like to carry two different leashes, a five foot leash and a longer leash. The length of the longer leash depends on the trail. If there are a lot of trees and bushes to get tangled in, I will use a 10 foot lead. But if the trail is wide open I will use a leash as long at 30 feet. A long leash gives your pup more room to roam and sniff, and helps avoid pulling. 

Hiking Packs

I think hiking packs are the item I have gone through the most. So many uncomfortable and impractical option out there, it’s been a difficult journey to find what works. 

I’m going to be real, most backpacks and fanny packs have been created for a man’s body. They sit uncomfortably on a women’s shoulders and hips. I have chronic back pain from ill-fitting packs. If you try to look for women’s hiking packs, you’ll come up with a lot of pinks and purples, but no difference in structure. It’s important to find a pack that properly fits your unique body shape, and having more than one option will help alleviate fatigue. I like fanny packs that you can wear around various parts of the abdomen and hips so I can shift it around when my body needs a break. I also like fanny packs that I can carry as a shoulder bag when I need to shift the weight. I prefer a backpack that has across the chest straps to keep the weight evenly distributed across my shoulders. I also like one that has a lot of room for adjustment, one that you can wear up on your middle back or down on your lower back. 

Other than a proper fit, it’s important to have room for all your trail needs. You’ll need your regular human things; wallet, phone, keys, etc. You’ll also need room for water, a first aid kit, any emergency supplies, treats/snacks, dog supplies, and any extra gear you like to bring along. 

You can also get a pack for your pup to carry. If they aren’t used to carrying weight, start them off with an empty pack and slowly add weight as they get used to it. Make sure the pack fits them so it’s snug enough that it doesn’t slide all over when they walk, but not too tight to rub and chafe. You’ll also want to pay attention to where your leash attaches to the backpack to make sure it works with you and your pup’s walking habits. It’s always a good option to try on different packs before you settle on one. 

Hiking Pack by Wilderdog

Clothing & Shoes

Clothing depends on the weather and environment. If it’s hot out you’ll want to consider some practical shorts and a top, but if you’re in an area with snakes, ticks, or poisonous plants you’ll want to either wear pants or high socks to protect your legs. If it’s cold or wet out, consider wearing a base layer under your clothes to keep you warm and dry. An extra pair of socks is always recommended in case your feet get wet, and bringing a light jacket can come in handy in a variety of situations. A hat and sunglasses will keep the sun, rain, and slow out of your eyes. If you get a hat with a neck flap you’ll be protected from the weather and the bugs. A bandana or neck wrap can also help with this, and soaking one in water will keep you and your pup cool on hot days

Shoes always depends on who’s wearing them. I have gone through a lot of hiking shoes. Boots, runners, sandals, you name it. I appreciate a shoe that supports my ankles and protects my toes, since I am never walking on even ground. I do not like mesh fabric or stretchy spandex material, as it deteriorates very quickly. I have also found that elastic shoelaces break after just a few outings, so I always replace them with heavy duty boot laces. I have a pair of hiking sneakers, a pair of water sandals, and two pairs of hiking boots; one that goes over the ankle and one that goes below. I like to have a few options for every season so I can switch footwear and avoid blisters and discomfort.  

Left to Right: Oboz Hiking Boots, Keen Hiking Waterproof Sandals, Solomon Hiking Sneakers

Clothing always depends on the wearer. I like a loose-fitting shirt with a comfortable neckline. I’ll bring a flannel, sweater, or jacket along in case the weather calls for it. Long sleeves protect against sun, rain, snow, wind, bugs and tall bushes. The same with pants; something loose-fitting that protects against the elements. If it’s hot out, I like shorts with high socks. I am a big fan of pockets. Even though I always carry a hiking pack, I like to have easy access to certain items, so pockets are a must. 

Bright colors or reflective gear will ensure others can you see, and will keep you extra safe during hunting seasons. This goes for your pup too.

Food & Water

Water is a must, but I am also a big fan of carrying snacks along, for both me and my pup. Be sure to bring more than enough water for you and your pup to have throughout your outing. You’ll want to have extra, in case of an emergency. Water is necessary for hydration, but it also comes in handy when it comes to flushing out wounds or irritated eyes. I like to carry a water bottle for myself and one for my pup. I also like to keep a whole lotta backup water in the car. Be sure to get a hiking pack that allows you to carry enough water. You could get something with a water bladder and add as many extra water bottles as you need.

3 Pups Enjoying a Gulpy

Snacks are up to you, but be sure to bring something for both you and your pup to enjoy! I like bringing high-value treats along on a hike, like cheese/chicken/hotdogs. High-value treats help me keep my pup’s attention and I don’t have to compete against chipmunks, deer, smells, etc. My favorite human treat to bring along is a snack bar that doesn’t melt or freeze, and a small piece of fruit like an apple or nectarine. If I’m on a long hike I like to bring along a freeze-dried snack to provide me with more energy. 

Emergency Tools

You should always have an emergency first-aid kit on you while on a hike. There are a lot of options out there, but I recommend getting a kit that has supplies for both you and your pup. You can get a kit and add anything you need, and you can adjust your supplies depending on your outing. The further you are from your car, the more supplies you should bring along. Bandages are one of the most used items in an emergency situation, so make sure you have plenty of gauze and vet wrap.

An emergency lift is a great way to get peace of mind when you’re on a long hike. If you travel far from the car and your pup gets injured, you’ll have to carry them back to the trailhead. With an emergency lift you’ll be able to hoist a dog of any size onto your back and carry them back down the trail. 

A good whistle will come in handy in an emergency. It will help your pup find you if they’ve ventured off the trail, and it can help others find you if you get hurt and can’t continue your hike. I like a whistle that can give off a variety of pitches. Keep in mind that three sharp, high-pitched blows on a whistle indicates that you are in an emergency situation and need help. 

I recommend carrying along an animal deterrent spray on every outing, no matter how long or short. I would steer clear of bear spray (unless you’re in an area with bears) because if you accidentally spray yourself or your pup you’ll be in a whole other emergency. A simple citronella spray will deter most other animals. An air horn works better, but it will effect both you and your pup’s ears so be aware. It could frighten your pup off and if they aren’t leashed you could lose them. A citronella spray will keep other dogs away from you, as well as some wild animals. If you want to make a loud noise, I recommend using your voice. 

MountainSmith Hiking Pack
(complete with all previously mentioned gear)

The most important thing to keep in mind in case of an emergency is where your closest vet clinic is. Whenever you go on a hike, do a quick Google search to see where the closest clinic is to the trail. Be sure that they are open during the hours of your hike. Covid has greatly changed the hours of vet clinics, and a lot of clinics are not open during their normal hours. Jot down their phone number so you don’t have to worry about stumbling around the internet on your phone while on the trail in an emergency situation. It’ll save you a lot of grief in an already very stressful situation. 

The gear you carry is completely up to you. I like to be prepared, and prefer having too much gear to not having the necessary gear. Whenever you go out without an item, you’ll most likely find that you need it so it’s always best to bring all the essentials. I always recommend testing out new gear on short neighborhood walks before you take them out on the trail. That way you’ll know what works for you and what doesn’t. There are a lot of hiking companies out there, both for humans and dogs, so you’ll have endless options to chose from. Getting recommendations from friends and dog care professionals is a better option than getting them from social media or Google. Thrift stores are great places to find used gear that you can test out for less money. You can find brands and styles that work for you under a budget, and then you can spring for brand new items once you know what you like. 

Cheatgrass & All its Evil

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Weeds are plants that people find undesirable in a particular location. Cheatgrass is a weed I find undesirable in any location! It’s invasive, grows like bamboo, spreads fires, and can injure you and your pets!

Cheatgrass Seeds

Cheatgrass was brought to North America by European settlers. It’s now found in almost every state, covering about 70 million acres of land, but is most prevalent in the Great Basin areas like Oregon. And although it hasn’t gone away over the last two unseasonably warm years, it normally grows at the beginning of spring and dies away in the winter.

Cheatgrass takes resources away from native plants, aids in the rapid spread of fires, and reeks havoc on wildlife. Why should you care about any of this? Because Cheatgrass can get into your pets systems and literally rip them apart from the inside out! It grows among regular grass, and can easily be ingested by your pup or cat. The seeds are small and lightweight, so if an animal rubs against them ever so slightly, it could send seeds into their eyes, ears, and respiratory systems. Seeds scattered on the ground can get trapped in paw pads and work their way between toes. If left unnoticed, these seeds will twist, spin, and wiggle their way further into an animal, resulting in open sores, infections, organ damage, and even death.

What can you do to avoid this? Keep your yard free of Cheat to limit exposure. Keep your pup on leash when in areas with high levels of Cheatgrass. Keep cats indoors if you live in a neighborhood with a lot of Cheat. Perfect recall and the “leave it” cue to keep them from munching on this horrible weed. Keep coats short, and keep fur between toes even shorter. Check your pet over after every outing, and then recheck them again several hours later. Having another set of eyes is always helpful.

Cheatgrass

I recommend checking over every inch of your pet, especially if they have long, thick, or curly coats. Doodles are the ultimate prey to Cheat. Get a good Furminator that works well in your pets coat, and then check their ears, eyes, nose, mouth (including back of throat), under the collar/harness, between toes, within the paw pad, and near genitals. Keeping coats short will help keep the Cheat off, and wearing boots and goggles will help keep the eyes and feet clean. If you see any Cheatgrass on your pet that you cannot remove, call your vet immediately. I know a lot of people reading this will be like, “A seed?! Yea right, big deal!” But after spending at least $800 on an emergency Cheatgrass removal you will definitely be singing a different tune.

Cheatgrass loves hot, dry environments, so going into the shady, wet woods is always a less risky option when it comes to Cheat. Keep an eye out for Cheatgrass and call your pup away from it before they get in too deep, and keep them on leash in areas where it’s unavoidable. Become familiar with this evil weed, and take note when you find areas without it.

Hot Weather is Here!

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It’s suddenly so hot out! Phew! So here are some tips on how to stay safe & cool…

Safety

  • Always have fresh water with you to offer your pup. A to-go bottle and a collapsible water bowl are always a good idea, or you could get a bottle with a bowl attached– super posh!
  • Check the surfaces you are walking on. Put the back of your hand to the ground and leave it there for five seconds. Grass is the coolest surface, and shade is always welcome!
  • Watch your pup for overheating or signs of labored breathing. Offer them shade and cool water. Be aware of the signs of heatstroke.
  • Never leave your pup in the car on hot days. Shade with the windows down is nice for a few minutes, but even that can get over 100 on a hot day. I love this video Grounds & Hounds did on how miserable & dangerous being in a hot car is!
PetPlan Insurance car temperature chart

Water Fun

Link enjoying a Chuck-it Bumper
  • Swimming is obviously a fun water activity, but not every pup enjoys the water. Using toys in the shallows will get them comfortable around water and getting their paw pads into cool water will help them cool down. Kiddie pools are great for those that don’t want to swim!
  • Sprinklers and misters are fun ways to cool down if your dog is willing. A mister is a little easier to get acquainted with, sprinklers might take some positive reinforcement and some water play on your part!
  • Toys that you can fill and freeze are refreshing for hot days, and having some on hand will save you when it’s too hot to go outside for enrichment!

Stay Cool Inside & Out

  • Have your pup wear a wet bandana, shirt, or cooling vest to keep them cool on walks. Shirts and vest also help those who get sunburned!
  • Get a cooling mat they can lay on. It might take some conditioning to get your pup used to laying on the mat, but once they do it’ll keep them cool!
  • Keep up on grooming and be sure to brush out those hot undercoats. Remember, not every dog’s coat is meant to be shaved, so consult a professional if you want to take off some of that fluff. Weekly brushings are usually enough to keep the extra weight off!
  • Have fun mixing up some frozen treats for your pup! You blend up any of their favorite fruits, veggies, or proteins and pour into an ice cube tray to make some pupsicles!
Link on his cooling mat

Wildlife Education: Small Stature, Big Punch

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There are a whole lotta critters out there! And you might encounter one or two while on a hike with your pup! It’s always a good idea to have some basic knowledge of who you might meet on the trail, and who you should avoid. Let’s explore some of the smaller animals found around Central Oregon.

Small Mammals- Chipmunks, squirrels, moles, voles, gophers, and marmots are all very fun things to chase! But if caught & digested they can make your pup very sick. Small mammals can carry parasites, fleas, and a variety of diseases. If ingested your pup could get have a bad reaction. Tapeworms are a very common result to ingesting small animals. Teaching a “leave it” or “drop it” cue can be very beneficial if your pup is into critter chasing. Make sure your pup is up to date on parasite preventatives to keep them protected.

Rattlesnakes- There are two types of rattlesnakes that live in Central Oregon; the Great Basin Rattlesnake and the Southern Pacific Rattlesnake. Both of these snakes are hearty in weight, have stubby tails equipped with jointed rattles, and have triangular-shaped heads. The Great Basin Rattlesnake is tan, light green, or grey in color. The Southern Pacific Rattlesnake ranges in color from dark brown to greenish brown to gray. You don’t have to memorize the differences between them, all you have to remember is not to go near one. Rattlesnakes are not aggressive and will only attack if they feel threatened, but if you accidentally step on one they will respond. It is a good idea to do snake training with your pup so that they never go near one while out on the trail. If you or your pup is bit by a rattlesnake, call an ambulance or haul ass to your nearest emergency vet. There is a vaccination that your pup can get, which helps slow the rate at which the venom travels through the blood and your pup will experience less pain. YOU MUST STILL GO TO THE VET AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Stock photos Left: Great Basin Rattlesnake Right: Southern Pacific Rattlesnake

Skunks- There are two types of skunks in Oregon, the spotted and the striped. They are both black and white, but the spotted is spotted, and the striped is striped. Imagine that. Both of these skunks will spray a acrid musk when threatened, so keep a safe distance if you see one. If your pup gets sprayed check their eyes and flush them with cool water, then give them an outdoor bath to remove the skunk oil from their coat. If you’ve tried tomato juice before you’ll know it doesn’t work very well. Instead try an off the shelf remedy from your pet store or create a mixture of 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap. Work into your pups fur and rinse thoroughly. Do not leave the solution on for long because the peroxide could bleach their coat. And do not get it near their eyes. Then shampoo them with their normal shampoo, rinse, and dry. 

Stock photos of skunks Left: Spotted Right: Striped

Porcupines- Porcupines are found throughout Oregon, mostly on the east side of the Cascades. They live in dens and spend their days munching on tree tops. They are large with short legs and their bodies are covered in bare-tipped quills. It’s a myth that porcupines can shoot their quills, but if threatened they will protect themselves. If your pup tries to kill one and gets quilled take them to the emergency vet right away. It is very dangerous to remove the quills yourself. They could break and get stuck under the skin. As your pup moves around the quills work their way deeper and deeper into their skin, muscle, and bone. Quills could stay in the skin for weeks, and if left untreated could cause serious infections and could lead to paralyzation or even death. 

Stock photo of a porcupine

Badgers- Badgers are unusual to come across because they are mostly nocturnal, but that doesn’t mean you might not run into one. Badgers are large and powerful. They have long bodies that are low to the ground, and long, sharp claws. Perfect for digging and self-defense. They will attack if threatened, and their claws can slice open skin like paper. Do not allow your pup to enter other animals homes uninvited. Keep them from sticking their heads in holes and from digging up burrows. 

Stock photo of a badger

Wolverine- They are rare, but they do exist in Oregon, and you should be prepared for when you might meet one. Wolverines basically look like small bears, with short legs and a bushy tail. They are normally out and about at nighttime, but will emerge during the day if they feel the need. Like most animals, they will only attack if they feel threatened. They are strong and powerful and have been known to take down deer. Don’t let your pups go sticking their noses in animal dens.

Stock photo of a wolverine

With fires blazing and a lot of new people moving to the state, wildlife has been forced to leave the safety of their homes and move out into new, uncharted territory. That means they are moving into human areas and you will encounter them more frequently. Be vigilant and keep your pups close!

Wildlife Education: Creepy Crawlers

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When you’re out on the trail with your Pup there are a plethora of animals out there. Some are harmless, some are scared, and some are more than willing to stand their ground and defend their territory. Having some knowledge about the various animals out there will help you be prepared for when you and your Pup meet one on the trail. Let’s explore some Central Oregon wild animals together, starting with the smallest.

Fleas– Have you heard of the Central Oregon flea rumor? Someone is going around telling everyone that fleas don’t exist in Central Oregon! It’s blasphemy! Though fleas are uncommon in Central Oregon, they definitely exist. The High Desert is too cold and dry for fleas to thrive, but they live happily in rodent burrows and deer beds. They are normally only around during the warmer months, from spring through summer. Flea bites can cause a lot of grief, irritation, and pain. Keep your pups up to date on flea meds to keep them (and your entire world) protected. If you find fleas on your pup you’ll have to immediately give them a medicated flea bath and clean everything in your home.

Stock photo of fleas in dog fur

Thatching Ants– Thatching ants are somethin’ fierce. They have black thoraxes, red heads, and very angry faces. They got their name by creating their home in giant mounds made of mostly pine needles, sticks, and debris. You can see the mounds moving with ants. Each nest could contain literally millions of these ants. The threat of these ants is their bite! Human or dog, these ants will latch on and bite you! And those bites are lasting. They burn and sting and itch for hours after. It’s easy to avoid their mounds, but they have exit holes everywhere so ants swarm in a wide radius of their nests. Wearing high socks will help you, but your Pups are more exposed. If you notice them fussing with their feet or legs give them a once over and remove any ants you see. Tweezers work best, but you can also wrap up your hand in a cloth or poop bag and pluck those suckers out!

Stock photo of thatching ants

Ticks– There are about 20 different species of ticks in Oregon. Four of them are more common than others: the western Black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick), the Rocky Mountain wood tick, the American Dog tick, and the Brown Dog tick. The western black-legged tick is the only species known to carry Lyme disease in Oregon, but there are other diseases that can be transmitted by ticks. Ticks often bite and burrow without the host even knowing. Many people who end up with a tick related disease had no idea they’d even been bit. Some ticks are smaller than a poppy seed, and they hang around in your hair or other areas you wouldn’t think to check after a trip outside. They’re sneaky, and very good at what they do. Ticks love hanging out on the tips of tall grass, waiting for an unsuspecting victim to brush through the grass. They latch onto their host and don’t let go. They have tiny hooks in their mouths that they use to burrow into skin. If you find one on your pup you can remove them with tweezers. Place the tip of the tweezers as close to the skin as possible, do your best to pinch the tick by the head and pull it straight out, slowly. If you are not comfortable or confident removing a tick take them into the vet asap. Check your dogs after every outing, and keep them up to date on tick medication to keep them safe and healthy.

Stock photo of a tick burrowing into skin

Spiders– Spiders are everywhere, and pups are constantly getting into their business. The three types of spiders to look out for are Black Widows, Hobos, and Yellow Sac spiders. The most common, and most dangerous venomous spider is a Black Widow. Females are the ones to look out for, as most males are rarely seen and are often eaten by their mates. They are black and sport a red hourglass on the bottom side of their abdomen. Their bite can cause muscle pain, nausea, and paralysis of the diaphragm, making breathing difficult. Hobo spiders are also something to look out for. They are reddish brown and often have stripes across the tops of their bodies. Their bites can cause necrosis, headaches, and vision impairment. And lastly, Yellow Sac spiders have a bite similar to the Brown Recluse. They are not quite yellow, and are more of a brownish tan color. Their bites are not as serious as the Black Widow or Hobo, but can cause swelling, redness, and a stinging sensation. These three spiders can be found anywhere. In homes, in yards, in the desert, and in the woods. They don’t bite humans very often, but will bite a dog if they are startled or feel threatened. Pups will often show signs of a bite within an hour. Most bites occur on their faces and will begin to swell. You most likely will not know that your pup encountered a spider, but if you see swelling or redness occur take them to the vet right away.

Stock photo of a pup with a swollen face

Stay tuned for our next Wilderness Education post about Small Animals such as squirrels, porcupines, badgers, etc.

A Love Story

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It’s almost the 6th year anniversary of when I adopted my sweet, amazing Pup Link from the Oregon Humane Society. The day my life changed forever, in the best possible ways. But his journey to me took much longer than 6 years. I’ve been waiting and searching for him for 30 years.

When I was young all I wanted was a dog. It’s all I talked about. I began bringing home neighbor’s pets, claiming that I would love them more and take better care of them than their humans did. Which was probably true, but I still had to return them to their families. Luckily these families saw how much I loved their pets, so rather than call the authorities they paid me to hang out with their fur babies! I worked in pet care through elementary, middle, and high school just so I could spend time with all the animals possible.

When I was a teenager I thought I would be ready to get a dog after high school, but once I got into my 20s I realized I worked too much and moved around too much to give a dog the care it deserved. So I (not so) patiently waited, doing anything possible to spend time with dogs. I worked at veterinary clinics, & doggie daycares, volunteered in shelters, participated in dog training & behavior classes, and played with every dog that would allow me to. I even worked at a portrait studio where 40% of our clients were pets.

And then one day, while I was volunteering as a dog walker at the Oregon Humane Society, I saw him. He was slumped over in the back of his kennel, looking away from the passing crowds. I watched as people said hello to the little dog on his left, then pass him by with a sideways glance, and move on to say hello to the little dog on his right. “That good boy needs a walk,” I thought. I went to the back of his run and read his card. His name was Fritz. He was from Walla Walla and transferred to OHS as part of their Second Chance Program. He had been adopted recently, but after only 6 days he was returned for “behavior issues”. I walked into his kennel and he walked over to me, his head down as if he wasn’t fully convinced I was taking him out. He reminded me of Eeyore. I could almost hear him say, “Thanks for noticin’ me.” I instantly loved him.

We walked the trails behind the shelter. He walked slowly by my side and didn’t sniff much. He barely acknowledged other animals. He just kind of Eeyored by my side. We spent our maximum allotted time outside, and when I brought him back to his kennel I sat with him for a bit. He didn’t seem to care if I was there or not, but when I got up to leave he lifted his head for the first time and looked up at me. So sad, and so cute. I could feel what he was telling me. I locked up his kennel, went into the office and said “can you give me all the info you have on Fritz and put a hold on him please?”

The next day, the day before Thanksgiving of 2014, I took my partner, Brendon, to meet him. We walked into the meeting room and a volunteer versed us on Fritz’s issues and how the adoption processed worked. Then she left to get him. We were so anxious. We didn’t know if we were ready for a dog, or if he would even like us. He came into the room, and just as before he was calm and somber. He barely sniffed around. He greeted Brendon and I, and then as the volunteer was talking about his aloofness, Fritz laid down at Brendon’s feet and fell asleep. The volunteer stopped talking, and we all knew, Fritz was our dog.

We signed papers, bought the necessities from the shelter store, and took Fritz home. He was so small and wide-eyed on our drive home. He cautiously settled into his new life, and we named him Linkavich Fritz Bowowski. Our missing Link.

Over the next few weeks we worked on his separation anxiety and other fear based behaviors. Then over the next few months we worked on his dog socialization skills. He was friendly, but was a ruff player and got agitated quickly. We came to learn he had a pretty ruff first few months of life. He was separated from his mom and litter mates too early so his social skills were lacking. He was thrown from or hit by a car as a puppy and as a result had to have an entire row of teeth removed and has permanent hip & joint damage. His first adopter left him home alone for hours in a new environment, with a new dog, without any acclimation process, which resulted in his return to the shelter. It didn’t help his mental situation, but it did bring Link and I together.

He’s come a very long way. And continues to learn and grow every single day. From a shaky, anxious Fritz to a bossy, goofball Link. I am so proud of the man he has become. He has more friends than I do, deep sleeps on the couch when he’s home alone, loves car rides & going anywhere with his humans, paddle boards, swims, runs, leaps, plays soccer, and chases lizards. He lives his life to the fullest.

In 2013 his kennel card read “His handsome face and endearing personality will capture your heart and make you ask yourself how you ever lived without him”, and today I totally agree. How did I ever live without him?

Counter Clockwise: (top left) Fritz’s shelter photo 2014, (below) a month after adopting Link 2014, (below) his first yard 2015, (bottom left) his favorite activity 2018, (bottom right) playing with his best bud 2019, (top right) being a total stud at the dog park 2020