Nope, can't figure it out. The menu doesn't make sense to me.  ... View more

I was going to show a photo of my Daphne's Ruffwear harness that she got last year, although it wasn't exactly a Christmas present, but I can't figure out how to insert it here. It has held up really well. ... View more

It's well known that exercise induces endorphins. Not everyone is into nature (although it's hard to imagine a non-outdoorsy person being on this forum), but I certainly think it has healing effects. I haven't struggled with longterm mental health, but when I'm feeling down, a hike with my dog lifts my spirits like nothing else.  ... View more

Nice weather, challenging trails, nice humans, and dogs! I lead a doggy hiking group, and to us, nothing is more enjoyable than watching the unbridled joy of our dogs running around and frolicking.   ... View more

I've been using Endomondo for years. You can set it to record any number of different types of exercise. I mostly use it for hiking. It shows all the important stats, as well as a map of the route you just did.  ... View more

Go on Meetup.com and look for doggy hiking groups! I found one in my area about 10 years ago, and we go out pretty much every weekend. We go to local parks, get our exercise, socialize, and have a great time watching our doggies enjoy life. We have such a great time. ... View more

I'm directionally challenged, too! For me to be able to go off trail, I have to know the area really well. And I absolutely agree that you need to be environmentally responsible. Good point! ... View more

I agree with the "ramp up" advice. You can do interval training with your dog the same way you would do for yourself. And when you see your dog's tongue sticking *way* out and to the side, it's time to rest and hydrate. When you're in the training phase, pay attention to how long it takes your dog to recover from the run. That can clue you into how well your pup is handling the new routine.  ... View more

If your dog is only 20 pounds, he might fit under the airline seat, assuming you are in regular-sized planes. It might be worth bumping yourself up to first class to make sure your buddy can travel in the cabin with you. I do recommend sedation in case the flight would upset him.  ... View more

In hot weather, I choose my hiking routes based on availability of water for my dog to swim in. Some of my hiking buddies also bring ice water in insulated bottles, and they sprinkle it on their doggies as needed to cool down. They seem to really appreciate it! ... View more