Ken, I too am very happy with this thread and the good responses to it. I'm learning things too, it's wonderful what can be learned when people share. Thank you to everyone.
Akichow, I love the photos of your dog...she's gorgeous...I think she should be in the movies...she sits well for the camera too. You have done a wonderful job preparing your pet for hiking and you have great recommendations for others who want to take their pets along on their hikes.
I was in Yellowstone a couple of years ago. The temperature was extremely hot. As I was hiking down a long, steep stairway I saw three people hiking up while tugging their dog along behind them. I could tell the dog was absolutely beat. I asked the people if they had water with them and they said no which totally upset me, but not so much for them but for their dog. The poor dog didn't choose to take a long hike without water, his owners did. I pulled out my last bottle of water and gave it all to the dog. I cupped my hands while a friend poured the water and that dog lapped it up so quickly. People need to stop and think about their pets too and not just themselves all the time, just as if they had children with them. No one would hike without having water for their children. Children and pets are at the mercy of their parents and owners.
