About Us

Lesson #5, A Little Privacy, Please
Despite my erudite observations and sage advice, I'm not entirely civilized. After all, I am still a dog, and I like barking! However, as the high country retreats under it's first dusting of snow, I need to restrain myself. Autumn is a crucial time for wildlife -- It's when they pack on the pounds for their long winter's nap; when they migrate to winter feeding grounds, and for many species, when they mate. Anyone who has ever met a bull moose in the rut knows he wants his privacy... To maintain your safety, and the safety of our forest denizens, be extra concious of your surroundings this season, and try to avoid placing extra stress on our wildlife. Remember, if they change their behavior in any way, you are TOO CLOSE. 

Lesson #4, Duck and Cover
I'll admit it: I am terrified of thunderstorms. The flash of lightning and the crack of thunderclouds make me feel like Chicken Little. With my superdog powers, I can smell a rainstorm brewing in Kansas and I can hear thunder building in Utah, but unfortunately, you people aren't as lucky. So know the forecast before you head out this summer, and remember: you can't outrun the weather, so be below timberline by 1 p.m.! Lightning can strike from 25 miles away, and unexpected gentle rains can result in hypothermia, even on a 65 degree afternoon. Always be prepared, and always have another person with you (even if you just need them to hide under. :) 

Lesson #3, Avoid the Impact of a Rescue
Well, I am down for a bit. I tore my doggie ACL and now I have to have surgery, which goes to show you that safety really is first. I'm just glad it happened at the dogpark, and not in the wilderness, since I weigh 89 pounds and rescuing me would have made a huge impact on the land. During rescues, minimizing impact is often 2nd place to expediency, but once you have been saved, who is there to justify the marks left by rescue crews, helicopters, signal fires, etc.? Obviously, in an emergency rescue the top priority is the rescue itself, but if you plan ahead and make safety YOUR #1, hopefully you won't be the one in need of a rescue to begin with. 

Another tip: don't jump off the log, even if it seems like the right idea. Your knees will thank you.

Lesson #2, Winter Body Management.
I am a big boy with an awesome fur coat, but even dogs get cold! On a recent snow camping trip, I got chilled and I started to shiver and shake -- and I don't mean paws. Shivering is the involuntary contraction of muscles to try and keep warm blood flowing throughout your body. if you start to shake, you are TOO COLD and need to warm up fast or you could become hypothermic! When out in cold weather, make sure you pay attention to what your body is telling you, and keep an eye on your animal friends too. Luckily my people recognized my predicament and were there to take care of me with down jackets and warm hugs. 

Lesson #1, Survival.
Usually, I can get by on my good looks. But just in case, my people always carry a survival kit when we're in the backcountry, even if we're just on a dayhike. You never know what can happen, and it's best to plan ahead and prepare! Every survival kit should carry the 10 essentials: 

1. Map – So you can get where you’re going or communicate your location to rescuers.
2. Compass – Critical for navigation and providing rescuers with your location.
3. Flashlight/headlamp – Going for help can mean a long hike in the dark. Don’t forget spare bulbs and batteries.
4. Extra food – For warmth and strength.
5. Extra clothing – For covering an injured hiker to prevent shock, as well as for keeping warm.
6. Sunglasses – Eyes are especially vulnerable to the bright sunlight encountered in the mountains. These can help avoid eye damage.
7. First-aid supplies/Gear repair kit – A ready-made, storebought kit may prove inadequate. It is best to construct your own, based on expert advice.
8. Pocket knife or Multi-tool – Can be incredibly versatile in time of need.
9. Fire starter – Being able to start a fire can be the difference between life and death. A fire starter, such as a lighter, matches, or some other device, as well as some form of tinder as a means to keep the flame going.
10. Whistle — To signal your location to rescuers should you need them.