One Health

Today, November 17^th, is National Take a Hike Day. Here in East Tennessee, the weather has been absolutely beautiful lately- crisp air, colorful leaves- the perfect time to get out and enjoy nature! Walking has been called the best medicine. It's great for your physical and mental health as it improves your cardiac and respiratory function; lowers the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers; and reduces depression!

Hiking can be even better with a buddy, whether it's a human or a dog! Here are some tips if you want to hit the trail with your furry friend:

1. Know the park: Some trails, especially those in National Parks, don't allow pets so make sure you check ahead.
2. Prep with your pup: Know what kind of trail and distance your dog can handle and work on their trail manners like being on leash and around other people.
3. Be mindful of environmental risks: Bug spray for humans and tick treatments for dogs will help ensure that everyone has a safe and happy experience. Even if you prepare ahead of time, make sure to check everyone for ticks afterwards.
4. Pick up after your pet: An obvious one- leave no trace!
5. Pack the essentials: You'll want to make sure you bring anything that you or your hiking buddy may need… especially plenty of water. I'll never forget being out on a hike and seeing a pup wearing his own backpacking pack with his water bowl on one side and frisbee on the other… That was a well-prepared family!

Hope everyone has a chance to get out today, even if just for a short walk after work.

Is there any special place your family likes to go? Does anyone have any pictures of their dog enjoying a hike they'd like to share?!

References:

Take A Hike Day - American Hiking Society

Hiking or Backpacking with Your Dog | REI Expert Advice

Hiking with Pets - Trails & Hiking (U.S. National Park Service)

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Kaitlyn Davis Andres
Research Associate
UTK Program for Pet Health Equity
TN
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This is Chance and I with our tribe when we hiked Mount Le Conte. Located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Sevier County, TN., at 6,593 ft it is the third highest peak in the national park. It is also the highest peak that is completely within TN. Hiking heals the mind and body!

@Jim Tedford, where have you hiked lately? I know you and the wife love hiking. 

Today, November 17^th, is National Take a Hike Day. Here in East Tennessee, the weather has been absolutely beautiful lately- crisp air, colorful leaves- the perfect time to get out and enjoy nature! Walking has been called the best medicine. It's great for your physical and mental health as it improves your cardiac and respiratory function; lowers the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers; and reduces depression!

Hiking can be even better with a buddy, whether it's a human or a dog! Here are some tips if you want to hit the trail with your furry friend:

1. Know the park: Some trails, especially those in National Parks, don't allow pets so make sure you check ahead.
2. Prep with your pup: Know what kind of trail and distance your dog can handle and work on their trail manners like being on leash and around other people.
3. Be mindful of environmental risks: Bug spray for humans and tick treatments for dogs will help ensure that everyone has a safe and happy experience. Even if you prepare ahead of time, make sure to check everyone for ticks afterwards.
4. Pick up after your pet: An obvious one- leave no trace!
5. Pack the essentials: You'll want to make sure you bring anything that you or your hiking buddy may need… especially plenty of water. I'll never forget being out on a hike and seeing a pup wearing his own backpacking pack with his water bowl on one side and frisbee on the other… That was a well-prepared family!

Hope everyone has a chance to get out today, even if just for a short walk after work.

Is there any special place your family likes to go? Does anyone have any pictures of their dog enjoying a hike they'd like to share?!

References:

Take A Hike Day - American Hiking Society

Hiking or Backpacking with Your Dog | REI Expert Advice

Hiking with Pets - Trails & Hiking (U.S. National Park Service)

------------------------------
Kaitlyn Davis Andres
Research Associate
UTK Program for Pet Health Equity
TN
------------------------------