Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Rail Trail Tips


Yesterday we wrote about walking the dogs on the rail trail over the weekend. Here is a list of tips for rail trail first-timers (aka "what we wish we'd done"):

Mom always said hindsight is 20/20


DO - Go when it's less busy - after a rain, at dawn or dusk, or on a weekday. Sunny weekend afternoons are guaranteed to be a busy time.

DO - Go for a short walk, especially if it's hot outside. Badger and Mushroom did fine with an hour-long walk on Saturday, when we went right after a rain, but they were pretty tired after an hour-long walk in the sun on Sunday.

DO - Bring water for yourself and your dog.

DO - Give your dog distance from "scary" things: bikers, rollerbladers, other dogs, etc. Be aware of when people are approaching, especially from behind, and step to the side or even off the trail if necessary.

DO - Bring lots of high-value treats!

DO - Bring poop bags and clean up after your dog.

"I can't poop if you're looking at me!"


What do you think of these tips? Anything you would add? Anything you disagree with?

Also, we were thinking about putting a backpack on Badger and having him carry water, but we didn't want him to overheat. Any advice on whether dog backpacks are okay in the summer?

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