31 May Second Chance: Summer Hikes with Your Best Friend & Updates!
Second Chance Humane Society’s Animal Resource Center (SCHS) and Thrift Shops have been serving San Miguel, Ouray and Montrose Counties since 1994. The shelter is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday 11am – 5:30 pm. Community veterinary services are available by appointment.
View shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org.
Go here for more on Dr. Shari DePauw of Second Chance. Second Chance veterinary clinic is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Call (970) 626-9713 or email clinic@adoptmountainpets.org
Go here for more options from Second Chance.
Finally, the snow is (mostly) melted, and it’s time to switch from snow boots to hiking boots! Your best friend is ready too! Make sure your dog is trail-ready and welcome in the backcountry.
The first stop might be a visit with your vet to make sure your dog is prepared for the hike you have planned. Some dogs are better hikers than others. If your pooch is young or is getting up in years, it’s especially important to make sure the or he is healthy enough and has the stamina to go. Starting with small outings is always a good idea.
Make sure to check the rules for the area you are visiting. Most US national parks do not allow dogs to share the trail, even on a leash. Many national forests, as well as state and local parks, allow dogs on their trail systems, though rules vary. Leashes are mandatory almost everywhere.
Start packing once you’ve done your homework. Take food (more than you usually feed your pet) and water (drinking from streams can expose your pup to dangerous bacteria and parasites). You also will need to add a few things to your first aid kit just for your dog. Things such as tweezers, paw crack ointment, and booties are important to have. Do some research or buy a ready-made dog first aid kit. You will also need a leash, a clip-on light to locate him or h\er even when it’s dark, and favorite treats to let your friend know how much you enjoy adventuring together.
In the wilderness, remember you and your dog are not alone. Be good neighbors to your fellow hikers and to wildlife. You may think your dog is adorable, but not everyone wants a random dog bounding up to them in the middle of a peaceful hike. You must always maintain control. Keeping your dog on a short leash is important for safety and courtesy. An off-leash dog can disappear out of sight and get into trouble. You don’t want your dog to come over a hill filled with porcupine quills or reeking of skunk. If there are off-leash areas where you are hiking, only let your dog run free if you have verbal control and you can see him.
This may seem like a no-brainer – but pick up after your dog. You might think your dog’s waste is a natural part of the cycle of life, especially in more remote locations. However, it can cause problems for local creatures and even negatively impact the water supply. And to be frank, it’s rude to leave your dog’s waste behind. You wouldn’t leave it on a sidewalk in town, so don’t leave it on a trail.
Buddy
AND… To continue the Second Chance Highlights section, we want to share the following:
Sit…Stay…Shop!
Re-Imagined Telluride Thrift Shop is OPEN!
After weeks of hard work, long hours, and creative ideas, Second Chance is happy to introduce the grand opening of our “new” shop in Telluride. The fresh layout, colors, name, and concept are ready for you to visit, so Sit…Stay…Shop!
We think you’ll agree it’s a beautiful transformation. The shop offers a boutique selection of clothing, jewelry, artwork, furniture, and sporting goods. There is space to sit and visit. We will also be hosting events, pet adoptions, and more!
As always- all proceeds benefit Second Chance Humane Society programs and services.
Sit…Stay…Shop!
335 W Colorado Ave in Telluride
Open Thursday through Sunday
11:00 am to 7:00 pm
(970) 728-1100
Friday 6/2
Vaccine & Wellness Clinic in Nucla at the Fire Station from 11-3
See attached price list:
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