Hiking With Your Kids
WATCH THEIR WORLD EXPAND WITH EVERY STEP
Hiking has many benefits as a family activity, such as mental
with you. Let your kids look at leaves, rocks, insects, or anything else you might come across on the trail. You can also bring binoculars to help them look at a bird that might be perched a little too high up. Another option is a bug holder to let your kids catch smaller insects, such as grasshoppers or pill bugs, and give them a close-up look. KEEP SAFETY IN MIND While you’re out on the trail, it’s essential to make sure that both you and your family are safe. Wear breathable, noncotton material and sturdy shoes that don’t expose your toes. It’s important to dress according to the weather. For example, if the day is sunny, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and apply plenty of sunscreen on any exposed skin. Bring your kids’ favorite snacks and water bottles for everyone to stay hydrated. It’s crucial that you also bring a fully stocked first-aid kit in case someone is injured on the hike. Starting with one of your local hiking trails can be a rewarding way to spend the day with your kids. You can watch their excitement as they expand their world with new discoveries.
health improvement, strengthening your relationships, and experiencing new sights and discoveries together.
It’s also great exercise, and you get plenty of quality time, fresh air, and sunshine. Here are three guidelines to help you and your kids have fun on your next hike. ENCOURAGE THEIR CURIOSITY One of the best ways to have your children learn about the world is letting them explore it. Being there for your children and encouraging them to ask questions about flowers, bugs, or animals you see on the trail will help them expand their vocabulary and learn how things work. When they learn they can explore independently and ask about the world around them, they’re gaining the confidence to teach themselves. BRING ALONG SOME TOOLS OF DISCOVERY Getting your children to engage in nature while you’re out hiking can be as simple as bringing a magnifying glass along
Keep Your Service Dog Cool While Working This Summer
SOME INVALUABLE INVENTIONS Many contraptions can help you keep your canine cool in the summer heat. Booties to insulate their toes and protect their paw pads from the hot asphalt, cooling vests that reflect sunlight off darker fur, and pressure- activated cooling pads are just a few of the gizmos you can purchase to stave off those scorching temperatures. WATER IN ALL ITS FORMS While certain dog breeds thrive in hotter climates, all pups need a little extra care when it comes to staying hydrated during the summer. For starters, always make sure they have ready access to drinkable water. If you have a long day planned, think about bringing a collapsible water bowl. MAKE ALLOWANCES While dogs usually work better in the heat than most people, it’s important to allow
Service dogs have a tough job, one that often includes odd hours, long work weeks, technical or specialized knowledge, and few breaks in between. If you have a service dog, keep in mind that in these soaring summer temperatures, there are several detectable signs of heat exhaustion you can watch for, including abnormal lethargy, vomiting, or a brightly colored blue or red tongue. Knowing the signs is important but so is prevention. Here are some tips to keep your service dog cool this summer. ACCLIMATION IS KEY Start by spending a few minutes of each day working outside with your canine. By carefully exposing them to rising temperatures over the course of several weeks, their body will begin to naturally adapt to the heat.
your working K-9 some leeway in performance. Keep in mind that dogs don’t sweat (except on the pads of their paws), so panting and direct heat exchange with the environment are the only ways they’re able to cool themselves. Give your partner extra time to complete tasks outdoors, and don’t be surprised if their obedience is a little less snappy or polished than it is when it’s cooler. Here at Jorgensen Law, many of our personal injury, Social Security, and disability clients work closely with service animals. If you need any other guidance about how to keep your own canine cool this summer, don’t hesitate to let us know!
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