Bandit's Buddies: Hiking Safety: Encountering Predators on the Trail

By: Amy Burkert

The snow is melting, the first green buds are appearing, and soon it will be time to hit the trails. Hiking is one of our favorite pet friendly activities, and I know many of you feel the same way. Of course, communing with nature can lead to encounters with wildlife and, while thrilling, it can also be dangerous. Deterring an attack or surviving one requires different behavior depending on the animal you encounter. Before you head out, make yourself familiar with the wildlife that lives in the area you are hiking, and follow these tips to be prepared.

General Tips

Avoid surprising animals by making noise and staying aware – especially on sections of trail with limited sight lines.
Putting bear bells on your dog’s collar will alert wildlife to your presence and give the animals time to avoid you.
Don’t wear headphones. Instead, tune into your surroundings so you can hear approaching animals.
Don’t jog on the trails known for animal encounters – it stimulates a predator’s instinct to chase and attack.
Be sure someone knows where you’re going and when you plan to be back.
Carry a first aid kit and a cell phone.
Follow leash laws. They are there to protect you and your pets from predators.
In places where off-leash hiking is allowed, keep pets close to you and within sight at all times. If they run ahead, they may bring the predator right back to you.
If you are hiking in bear country, keep in mind that bears tend to be more active at dawn and dusk, so plan your hikes accordingly.
Keep an eye out for tracks, fresh scat, digs, other signs that animals are active in the area.
Carry bear spray and be sure that you have practiced using it before an attack.