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Draw Inspiration From Your Pet’s Behavior inside this issue
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The Newest Pet Hero
Pets Save the World
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Team Member Spotlight
Clients Spreading the Word
Homemade Blueberry-Apple Dog Treats
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Top Early Spring Hiking Tips
Trekking After pril Showers
YOUR TOP EARLY SPRING HIKING TIPS
Many nature lovers look forward to enjoying their favorite hiking trails right after winter. However, some may skip the spring months to avoid muddy encounters. Between the snowmelt and the rainfall, traversing muddy paths can be messy and dangerous. Here are some tips to keep equipment — and the trail — in good shape while trekking through the muck!
tied tight! And when the hike is over, line your car with a plastic tarp, not plastic bags, to protect the interior. Then you’ll only have to clean the vehicle out at the end of the muddy season.
Removing the mud from your shoes is also important, as mud left on leather will dry out the material and cause cracks, ruining its
weatherproofing capabilities. Blaze the Trail’s Center
Bring Trekking Poles Avoiding falls is one of the most important parts of mud hiking. Not only will a fall mess up your gear, but you’ll also risk serious injury. It’s hard to tell how deep a mud puddle really is, so by bringing a trekking pole, you can test a puddle’s depth. If it’s too large to jump over, a trekking pole will help distribute your weight as you pass through it. Plus, you’ll save energy by using a helpful walking tool! Watch Your Shoes It might seem obvious, but don’t lose track of your shoelaces, especially if you’re crossing deeper mud — mud can pull your boot right off if you step into an unexpectedly deep puddle. Check every so often to make sure your shoelaces are
Although trails are often the soggiest this time of year, staying at the trail’s center is your best strategy for safety and trail preservation. The trail is most vulnerable to erosion during the early spring, so mud hikers can help maintain the trail by staying in the center, even if it’s tempting to walk on the edges or off it entirely. Step on rocks where it’s safe, use a trekking pole for added stability, and avoid widening the trail where you can. Being “lost” in the beauty of the changing season can be one of the many appeals of mud hiking, especially in the early mornings when the mud tends to be more firm. So, check out your available local trails and stay safe!
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