How to Behave in the Mountains with Your Dog: Rules and Useful Tips
Living the mountain experience with your dog can be a wonderful adventure, but it's essential to do it responsibly, respecting the regulations and adopting prudent behaviors.
Precautions and Common Sense
Before diving into the specific rules, it is essential to consider some practical aspects that can make a difference in an environment with many variables, such as mountain hiking.
Obedience: Even though a leash is mandatory, it is crucial that the dog responds to basic commands. An obedient dog reduces the risks in an unpredictable environment like the mountains, ensuring safety for itself and others. A relationship based on listening and trust is essential for enjoying an unforgettable and peaceful experience.
Health check before departure: Before heading out, it’s advisable to check the dog’s general health, ensure that vaccinations are up to date, and apply appropriate parasite treatments.
Get them used to elevation changes: If your dog is not used to elevation changes, start with trails that have an elevation gain of about 250 meters, gradually increasing the intensity. This progressive training will help your dog adjust to the challenges of the mountain.
What to Pack in Your Backpack
Documents: Bring the health record, the dog registration certificate, and if you are traveling from abroad, the EU pet passport.
Water Bowl: Ensure your dog always has access to fresh drinking water, avoiding unregulated sources.
Spare Leash: Useful in case the main leash breaks or gets damaged.
Emergency Kit: Include disinfectant for potential wounds, cortisone, bandages, and tweezers for removing ticks or parasites.
Veterinarian Nearby
Note the phone number and address of the nearest veterinary clinic to your destination. Having this information readily available can be crucial in case of an emergency, so you're not caught off guard. You can find a list of veterinarians in South Tyrol by region at this link.
Shade, the Great Ally
During summer hikes, choosing shaded trails and planning stops in cool areas to avoid heatstroke for your dog is essential. Bring a portable umbrella if you expect prolonged stops in sun-exposed areas.
Riding the Lift Systems with Your Dog
When using lift systems such as cable cars or gondolas, make sure to:
- Keep the dog on a leash throughout the ride.
- Carry a muzzle, as it may be required by the lift staff.
- Consider the lift's elevation to avoid health complications for your dog.
In some places, your dog may travel for free, while in others, a ticket may be required. Make sure to check the specific policies of the lift system you intend to use before setting off for your adventure!
Rules to Follow
Regulations may vary depending on the municipality or the managing body of the mountain area, so it’s always advisable to check before embarking on a hike. Among the main rules, remember that dogs must have an identification microchip. In South Tyrol, animals under 15 weeks old are not allowed.
Leashes are legally required even during mountain walks, with a few exceptions marked by specific signs: it is advisable to use a fixed leash of a maximum length of 1.5 meters and an H-harness for added safety and control.
It is also mandatory to collect dog waste using a scoop and special bags. This behavior respects the environment and prevents the spread of harmful parasites to wildlife.
In some protected areas or nature parks, access to dogs may be prohibited or restricted. Likewise, in some lakes, dog bathing may be prohibited. It is essential to pay attention to the signage present and check in advance with local authorities or the managing bodies of the areas you plan to visit.
By following these tips and respecting local regulations, you can enjoy wonderful days in the mountains with your four-legged friend, ensuring safety and fun for both of you.