[pct-l] dogs on the PCT

[Deems]

Benefits:

This list has gone to great lengths to warn of all the problems with dogs on
the trail, so I won't go into that now. The problems are real and should not
be dismissed. Having said that, if your dog is one of those who does well on
the trail (and you probably won't know for sure until you try), then you
will not find a happier, better companion anywhere. And they love it, all of
it-the smells, the walking, the companionship of the pack, the guarding and
just being with you. In addition, they are great animal detractors. We have
had many encounters with bears in the past but none with the dog. My theory
is that bears can find easier pickings elsewhere and since they don't like
dogs, they just leave you alone. Many a time I have woken in the night to
hear Mr. C. make a low rumble in his throat and that's about it. I don't
know who he's warning but it seems to do the trick.

So hike your dog's hike and enjoy!

Jo and Cody
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is one of the best written trail information expose for dogs, and it is 
by a very experienced dog and hiker family.  Cody was at the ALDHAw 
gathering, and can be seen in the photo on the cover of the Winter2007 
Gazette. Cody has better manners in a crowded hiker gathering than the 
people.   For those hikers that want to hike with their dog, and are willing 
to hike at their furry friend's pace and accept their limits, then they will 
have the rare experience of seeing the wilderness through the keen senses 
and animal skills of their furry friend.  The dog is the best deterrent and 
early warning system for unexpected wilderness visitors man that could ever 
need; a wilderness realtionship that goes back many thousands of years.  I 
have no problems with bears when I hike with my dogs. I have many wilderness 
hiking photos with my friends Pika, Kelly, and Toledo in my galleries, just 
click around. The dog is man's best friend, and they are my best friend on 
the trail.
http://www.pbase.com/image/70984778/original  Pika in the Sierra