Hit Vernon’s Trails With Your Four-Legged Running Buddy

There’s something pretty great about hitting the trails with your dog. They don’t care about your pace, they’re always excited to go, and somehow every trail run is the BEST RUN EVER when you have four legs.

Vernon has some incredible places to explore with your four-legged running buddy, but summer brings a few extra things to think about. Heat, wildlife, rattlesnakes and busy trails can all change the adventure pretty quickly.

A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping both you and your pup safe.

Run Early and Beat the Heat

Okanagan summers get HOT.

Whenever possible, plan your run for early morning when temperatures are cooler. Dogs can overheat much faster than we realize, especially on exposed trails with very little shade.

Bring enough water for both of you and consider carrying a collapsible bowl. Don’t assume there will be safe drinking water along your route.

Pay attention to your dog. Excessive panting, slowing down, seeking shade or simply not acting like themselves are all signs that it might be time to call it a day.

Sometimes turning around early is the best training decision you can make.

Watch Those Paws

We wear trail shoes. Our dogs don't!

Dry dirt, rocks and exposed surfaces can become incredibly hot during the summer. Before heading out, check the ground temperature and think about the terrain you'll be travelling over.

After your run, take a minute to check your dog's paws for cuts, thorns, irritation or anything that may have become lodged between their pads.

Rattlesnakes Live Here Too

We share our beautiful Vernon trails with wildlife — including rattlesnakes.

Keep your dog close, stay on established trails and avoid letting them wander through tall grass, brush or rocky areas where you can't see what's ahead.

Staying toward the centre of the trail gives you a better chance of spotting a snake before you or your pup gets too close.

If you see one, give it LOTS of space and allow it to move away.

Give All Wildlife Space

Rattlesnakes aren't the only animals sharing the trails with us.

Depending on where you're running, you may encounter deer, bears, coyotes and plenty of other wildlife.

Keep your dog under control and never allow them to chase or approach wildlife. Giving animals lots of space protects you, your dog and the animals that call these areas home.

Know the Leash Rules

Different Vernon-area trails and parks have different rules when it comes to dogs.

Know before you go and keep your dog leashed wherever required. Even in areas where dogs are permitted off leash, they should be under control and able to return to you when called.

Not everyone on the trail is comfortable around dogs — and that's okay. Part of being a good trail user is making sure everyone gets to enjoy the outdoors.

Share the Trail

We're lucky to have trails used by runners, hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, families and dog walkers.

Pay attention to what's happening around you, yield when appropriate and keep your pup close when passing other trail users.

A friendly hello goes a long way too.

Don't Forget the Post-Run Check

When the run is over, give your dog a quick once-over.

Check paws, legs, ears and fur for ticks, cuts, burrs or other trail souvenirs they weren't supposed to bring home.

And, of course, pack it in and pack it out — including those poop bags!

Your Dog Doesn't Care About Strava

This might be the most important one.

Your dog doesn't know how far you planned to run. They don't care about your average pace, elevation gain or whether your watch says you still have another 5K to go.

Adjust your run for the conditions and for your dog.

Take breaks. Find some shade. Bring extra water. Turn around early when you need to.

The goal isn't just to get the kilometres in — it's to finish with a happy, healthy pup who's ready to lose their mind with excitement the next time the running shoes come out.

We have some pretty spectacular trails right here in Vernon. Get out there, explore them, respect them and enjoy the adventure with your favourite four-legged running buddy.

Now we want to know — what's your favourite Vernon-area trail to run with your pup?