Winter is showing off in all its glory. And winter sports fans are setting off for the mountains. They're often accompanied by their four-legged friends. Especially more and more popular is becoming ski mountaineering. Furry companion's presence is becoming more common also on cross-country trails. We asked Katarina Vigodová, a Slovak musher, how to prepare before setting off skiing with your dog. She advises owners not to overestimate their abilities.
What would you advise someone who is preparing to set off with their dog for the first time?
It's definitely better to have previous experience in ski mountaineering and therefore be aware of what's to come. This way we can concentrate on enjoying spending time with the dog, rather than fighting to survive. A small practice beforehand or a more careful start is definitely recommended. The trail should be chosen based on our abilities, and its profile and difficulty adapted accordingly.
I presume a classic lead isn't enough. What equipment is required?
For skijoring, it's good to have skating cross-country skis and a hipbelt that offers freedom of movement. Also a long bungee rope to ensure a sufficient distance between the end of the skis and the dog's back paws. Usually a classic 2.8 m log bungee rope, used also for scooters or bikejoring, is enough. A suitable dog harness goes without saying. It should be the length of the dog's back.
What shouldn't the owner forget to pack for the dog?
It's important not to forget about the unpredictability of the weather and pack a warm layer for ourselves as well as for the dog. Having dog shoes in our pocket is alpha and omega whether we're planning to do a 5 km long loop on cross-country skis or an all-day trip. The change in snow conditions or an unexpected injury can always surprise us. It's good to be prepared and have shoes for all 4 paws, which will save the dog in case of an injury or prevent an injury on hard, frozen snow.
You've mentioned injured paws from the snow. What if the dog cuts itself on the edge of the ski?
It's recommended to take a small first aid box on longer trips. Take at least Coban - which is an elastic dressing that can stop bleeding in case the dog, despite all the precautions, cuts itself on the side of the skis.
Should the dog's nutrition be changed before, during or after the workout? And how?
It's a training or a trip like any other, so just keep feeding them like you're used to during training or when going for a trip. Don't underestimate hydration and always take a snack with you on longer trips. Ideally it should be small in size but high in energy value. Nobody likes running with a full stomach.
Thank you very much, Katka, for today's introduction to how to get ready for skiing with a dog. Next time, we're going to continue with how to move with your dog when you get out there.
.jpg/30x20/FIT)
.jpg/600x400/FIT)
Summer months bring hot weather and also holidays. What sort of nutrition do animals require during this period? Is it necessary to change their diet on hot days? And what is most important during hot temperatures? We have discussed this topic with...
.jpg/30x20/FIT)
.jpg/600x400/FIT)
Despite being self-reliant animals to a certain extent, cats are provided with the best possible care by their owners who make sure that those balls of fluff are content in any circumstances. What is required by cats that live with us in a flat? And...
Everyone should have their own place where they can relax in peace. This also applies to animals. Rats, for example, who are very sociable and in nature live in large groups, usually have their own place where they can recharge by the side of their...
They help with searches in avalanches, debris and large wooded areas in inaccessible terrain. They save valuable minutes that can make the difference in whether an injured person survives. One canine rescuer makes up for up to 20 people, especially at...
The tradition of rescuer dogs has been a staple in the Czech Republic for almost a century, and our country ranks among the top European leaders in this discipline. Canine rescuers help in the mountains not only in winter, but throughout the whole...
Today, there are a number of products and gadgets for riding with a dog, which will ensure that we can take the dog with us safely on longer journeys. However, you should pay attention to driving safety even if you only drive a few kilometers. Even...
Dog agility is a discipline that means a lot of exercise for both the dogs and the handlers, but also a lot of fun. In addition, it strengthens the relationship between the owner and the animal, and also allows the dog to learn new skills. Another...
Rabbits are great pets for all who live in flats, but cannot afford a cat, or just want to have a cheerful companion who won’t let you down and can handle being alone at the same time. Still, there are certain factors you should think about before...
In most cases, cats love being in nature and active, so it comes as no surprise that felines living in houses and flats may occasionally want to go out and explore the world. If you have such a cat at home, you may find useful the following tips on...
Czech cynologists from the Search and Rescue Czech Republic team have managed to train eight dogs who can tell if you have COVID-19. Detecting the disease is a worldwide problem, which is also recognized by VAFO, who supported the project financially...
As the title suggests, this breed comes from the State of Maine in the United States. It is one of the oldest breeds living in nature, the largest domesticated breed, gaining popularity in Europe in recent years. There are several reasons for this....
We have already introduced dogfrisbee, the activity in which a dog catches a frisbee, several times. We focused mainly on various disciplines in which dog owners can compete together with their canine companions at any level. Another such discipline...
