Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller.
On a recent hike/scramble up one of the highest mountains in the region, it wasn’t exactly what I expected. But the first rule of the mountains is to expect the unexpected. And, to be fair, overall it was a good experience.
It was a beautiful day, out in nature, with the elements. Being outside has been shown to improve blood pressure, mood, and generally relieve stress. What’s not to enjoy?
But, too, the mountains can be unforgiving. Even a short walk can be fatal. A lack of preparation can turn a day trip into reality quickly if the weather changes, or a member of the group injures themselves. And that’s just for people. But what about pets? Where do they fit into this equation?
Calls to Adventure!
As more and more people jump on social trends and release their adventure cats and adventure pups, in many ways, this is to be applauded. The bond created, not to mention the exercise, are all very positive things that come from getting out and about with your pet. As a veterinarian, I also have the secret evil pleasure of seeing the stigma of cats as indoor pets, or homebodies, completely defeated.
But this recent walk really got me thinking: what are the limits to what we should ask pets to endure? In particular, this hike involved technical scrambles, white-out conditions, winds of 50+ knots, and near-freezing temperatures. And did I mention the rain? The really bone-chilling, energy-sapping, wind-driven rain? And if it’s all for an image on social media, or worse, pure ignorance of the severity of the conditions, why take the risk? We all love our pets, but that certainly means knowing when to say no, as well.
Know Your Limits
In other words, about 30 minutes from the summit, we encountered many adults and children who were literally screaming, sobbing, or both, that they couldn’t go on. The conditions took their toll. These people are done, defeated. They know their limits, and they draw a line in the sand. However, the number of animals I saw, climbing the mountain, seemed unreal. Certainly a small number seemed to be enjoying the slightly shaky outing. But most of the dogs looked wary, and unsure, if not outright scared.
I understand, we love them. They are family. But just as not all people should be hiking difficult climbs, neither should all animals. Pad cuts, dehydration, injuries- are these people prepared for first aid for their pets? Many have almost nothing waterproof and themselves are drenched, looking miserable, and complaining enthusiastically. If that’s what they’ve been preparing for themselves, you have to wonder: what failsafes do they have for their pet?
Avoid Risk
Just as we do a mountain risk assessment on ourselves, I strongly advocate that we need to do the same for our pets before we go outside. Even the danger they pose to others—I’ve seen more than one dog trying to get away from the wind potentially blowing them over the edge, and nearly tripping a few hikers with their leashes in the process. The decision to take these pets up a mountain in bad weather is now putting many lives at risk.
In my opinion, few, if any, pets (feline or otherwise) belong on a mountain. It might make it look good on Instagram, but the truth can be harsh, and both human and animal lives can be at risk.
This article is part of a series by Dr. Lauren, Pancake, and Tiller.
