mountain climbin

Question
Greetings.  I live in Iowa with a 3 year old dog (45lbs).  She is in good shape and goes on jogs with me regularly (3 miles, 3 times each week).  Next week I'm heading to Colorado to climb a 14,000ft mountain (5.5 mile hike each way).  Should I have any concerns about taking my dog on the trail with me?  For example, will the altitute affect her in any way that I might not expect?  Thanks.
-Clayton

Answer
Hello Clayton -

Dogs can suffer from effects of altitude and can suffer from acute mountain sickness(ACS) the same as humans.

A dog with AMS  will stop eating or not eat as much as normal, will become listless, doesn't want to do much, and will basically shown signs very similar to those exhibited by humans. One main indicator that your pet may be suffering from ACSis tongue color. The tongues of afflicted dogs, much like humans, would become "mildly dusky."

Dogs will respond well upon returning to lower elevations.

AMS usually will set in over 14,000ft elevations so may you may be pretty safe. The most important thing is to keep your pet hydrated. Dehydration may overweigh AMS or can lead to it if not corrected. Teach your pet to either drink from a bottle of water or out of your hand if necessary, this will ensure that she is getting enough fluids.

Rest is also imporant, if she is tiring, stop, rest and give her more water and then move on to a higher elevation - same for yourself!

For the future, you may want to consider a supplement of Glucosamine Chondroitin to assist your pets joints from early deterioration.

I hope this information has helped you and your pet. Best wishes on your trip, I would love to experience the hike and wilderness you are about to endure!

If you would like information on natural and herbal remedies for human and animal concerns please contact me at wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you. I also offer a catalog of specially formulated herbal remedies which I can send to you as well. My products are also available online at www.localharvest.org.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist