Tired Terrier rescued from Lake District after refusing to walk any further
A tired Terrier and his owner had to be rescued from a mountain in the Lake District last week after the dog refused to walk any further.
The nine-year-old animal was on a stretch of the Cumbria Way when he laid down and refused to move, the BBC reports. Rescuers say the Terrier had become cold in the wet weather.
His unnamed owner tried to carry him, but became too tired himself so took shelter in a hut used by walkers during bad weather. He alerted the Keswick Mountain Rescue Team of their whereabouts and volunteers escorted the pair down from the Caldbeck Fells.
"It had been a long wet day for them and the dog just refused to carry on," a rescue team spokesperson told the BBC.
"With visions of Great Danes and Rottweilers and the possibility of having to call more team members to stretcher the dog off, the team were pleased to find a small and easily portable, cold, shivering terrier. The pair were escorted down to where one of the team was able to drive them to their accommodation in Caldbeck."
5 things to remember before taking your dog on a hike, according to the Preventative Vet:
1. Their health
Both puppies and older dogs can suffer from joint strain on long hikes, which can lead to arthritis and joint problems later in life. Puppies are also at higher risk of heat stroke in hot weather because they find managing their body temperature more difficult than older dogs.
2. Their stamina
Young dogs need training to take on big walks, while older dogs often become tired more quickly. It's important to factor this in when planning a hike. Start with an easy hike on a small incline of no more than an hour.
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3. Their breed
Short-nosed dogs like Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boxers can struggle to breathe during exercise, so are more prone to exhaustion and heatstroke. For this reason, demanding hikes are not advised.
4. What to pack
A dog's paws can become sore whilst hiking, especially in very cold or hot weather or on uneven ground, so it's worth investing in paw protection wax or boots (these require a little practice first). Cooling vests or insulated coats can also be useful depending on the weather. Also pack a portable water bowl (and plenty of water), food and snacks, dog poo bags, a dog first aid kit, sunscreen (ask your vet which is best) a towel and a brush for checking for ticks at the end of your walk.
5. This golden rule...
Dogs of all ages need frequent rest and water breaks on long walks. It's important to follow their lead, so if they stop to lie down, let them take a drink and a rest.
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