Patient doggie

Try to imagine running through a field of grass that stands at eye level: The grass whips your face, leaving tiny cuts on your nose and barbed seeds lodged in the corners of your eyes. Now imagine trying to pull those painful grass seeds (also known as foxtails) out of your eyes without the use of your thumbs. That's the life of a field dog, and despite the problems, those trail hounds love being out in the woods and meadows with their owners. Whether it's a day of hunting, hiking, or just exploring the nearby state park, owners can make it even more enjoyable and safe for their pooches by being properly prepared.

Doggie Dangers

Dogs in the field, especially those that hit the trails with their backpacking people, face just as many, if not more, dangers to their health and well-being than do humans, so the pups' human partners should be carrying a first aid kit tailored toward canine needs.

Dr. Randy Acker, a veterinary surgeon in Ketchum, Idaho, has written the book on first aid for field dogs. Acker developed a particular interest in sporting dog injuries and orthopedic surgeries, and has earned a national reputation as one of the foremost canine surgeons in the West. Dog First Aid: A Field Guide to Emergency Care for the Outdoor Dog (Wilderness Adventure Press), is the slim yet highly informative result of Acker's personal passion for the care of outdoor dogs.

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