We had a little spring snowstorm today. The sun came out around 4PM and Bonnie and I went for a slog through the slush and streams and mud. Since I am still on the short run program I had the brilliant idea of letting her carry her pack for some additional exercise. This was the first time she’s worn it. (Doesn’t she look thrilled about it?) It was empty. You can’t tell in this photo, but we definitely need to do some fine-tuning of the fit. Hopefully this summer she can carry some of her own water and Hammer Gel. Yes really! Vanilla is her favorite flavor. We split a pouch when we are out more than 3 hours.
Warning: Be careful with dogs and sports drinks. A lot of energy drinks, including Hammer HEED, contain xylitol. This sugar-alcohol is extremely toxic to dogs. It triggers an insulin reaction. Even a single piece of gum can kill a dog in 30 minutes. It is in a lot of products because it has been shown to help prevent cavities in humans. Be careful what people food you share with your pup. Also dogs don’t sweat so they don’t need electrolyte replacement like people do and giving them unneeded electrolytes may make it more difficult for them to stay cool.
aw… do you put his little books and pencil bag in there, too?
is xylitol labeled as such? our labeling is with numbers with somethings. i’ll have to look it up. msg is “flavour enhancer 621” argh!
if you train her to use a camelback, i’ll be so jealous.
Xylitol is listed as xylitol in the US. Let me know if you find out what it is called in Australia.
Bonnie and I will work on that camelback trick. : )