Walking with a dog in a forest

Preparing for a walk

In advance, treat the dog for ticks, fleas, and other parasites that can harm the animal's health. So a couple of days before walking, check out the pest control guidelines in your area and take appropriate action. The first aid kit is included.

Do you need a leash?

Keep in mind that even if your dog clearly knows all the commands and unquestioningly executes them during city walks, its behavior can change dramatically in an unfamiliar environment. So it is not recommended to let the dog off the leash in places you have not previously walked. If the forest area is familiar to the dog and the animal obeys you well, you can avoid using the leash.

Some dogs can get a hunting instinct when walking in the forest, so when seeing the prey, the dog may rush headlong into the thicket. A dog on a hunt is unlikely to listen to your commands and can run away really far. In such a situation, do not panic and do not stop calling your pet.

So whether you use a leash for a walk in the woods or not, we strongly recommend putting your address and phone number on the dog's collar. Also, if the budget allows, you can purchase a GPS tracker.

What dangers can wait for a dog in a forest?

• The place where you walk can be a hunting ground or a reserve. So make sure in advance whether it is safe to walk around the selected area with a pet.
• Snakes are another threat to a dog. The snake will not attack first, but the pet may want to play with it or touch it. If a snake bites your dog or you see it whining, notice teeth wounds on its body, then immediately take the pet to the nearest veterinary clinic. There, the animal will be injected with a special serum.
• Unless your dog has been taught not to pick up from the ground, walking around with a muzzle is safer because the pet may become interested in a poisonous mushroom.
• In addition, the dog may get hurt, fall, or suffer from another animal. We recommend having a first aid kit for such cases.

What should be in the first aid kit: Checklist

• Antihistamine for insect bites;
• Hydrogen peroxide for washing wounds;
• Dressings (bandages);
• Patches;
• Hemostatic tourniquet.

Check more useful tips and hints, video lessons and training plans, from dog experts on the App Store or Google Play. Walk tracking, family sharing, and reminder features included.