The weather is warm, and the call of the wild beckons you to the great 

outdoors. Whether hiking or camping, you can take your dog along 

for the adventure. With careful planning and preparation, having your 

four-legged companion along can be a very rewarding experience for 

you both.

Planning

Always check with local, state, and U.S. National Parks for the rules and 

regulations governing dogs on the trail or in campgrounds. Most U.S. 

National parks do not allow dogs on the trails, and many parks only 

allow dogs in a few select campgrounds.

Maintaining control of your dog on the trail is a requirement in almost 

all parks and recreational areas. Leashes should not be longer than 6 

feet in length and must be in use/attached at 

all times. Extendable leashes are generally 

not sturdy enough for trail use as these 

leashes allow the dog to roam off 

trail, often out of sight and 

potentially into harm’s 

way. Free-roaming 

dogs pose a risk 

to wildlife 

and 

livestock. In all 50 states, it is illegal for a dog to harass (track, chase, tree 

and so forth) wildlife (unless specified by hunting laws and season) and 

livestock.

Remember, you will be sharing the trail with other hikers and their 

dogs, mountain bikers, runners, possibly horses, and local wildlife. Trail 

manners are essential for keeping everyone safe. Allowing your dog 

to run up to other hikers, roam off the trail, and bark excessively can 

detract from your hike and the enjoyment of those who share the trail 

with you and your dog. 

Most importantly, ensure your pet is healthy and fit enough for hiking 

and camping. Your dog should be current on all vaccinations, most 

importantly rabies. Check with your veterinarian to determine what 

vaccines/precautions are necessary, specific to the location of your hike 

or camping trip. Pack the appropriate proof of vaccinations/certificates 

because collars and tags can be lost. Ensure your pet is receiving 

all necessary medications, especially heartworm and 

flea/tick preventatives. If you have any concerns about 

the health of your pet before hiking, make an 

appointment with your veterinarian. 

You and your pet should be able to walk 

and hike the trails you have selected. 

Physical conditioning may be an 

important step in preparing 

yourself and your dog for the 

adventure. 

P1 / PET SAFETY

Hiking with Your Dog

P2 / PET AWARENESS

Calendar of Events

P3 / PREVENTIVE HEALTH

Pocket Pets

P4 / ZOONOTIC DISEASE

Pets and Immunocompromised 

Individuals

Veterinary

2017 SUMMER EDITION News about Animal Health, Food Safety, and One Health.

Army Public Health Center

>> CONT. ON PAGE TWO

Hiking with Your Dog
P2

>> CONT. FROM PAGE ONE

Plan for increased exercise, longer walks with or without your packs over 

hilly and uneven ground to prepare for trail hiking. Check the weather 

while planning for the trip and check daily as the time for the hike 

approaches. Pack appropriately for any weather that one may encounter 

while hiking or camping. Be aware of the wildlife you may encounter, 

and learn how to avoid confrontations. 

Packing 

Day Hikes:

• Flea and tick preventatives are important for you and your pet. Ensure 

your pet has received the appropriate preventatives before you hike.

• Bring sufficient bottled water for you and your companions or a 

collapsible water bowl that you can fill with filtered water as well as 

snacks and treats for your dog. 

• First-aid kits with basic supplies (such as gauze pads, bandage tape, 

topical disinfectants, and small scissors) are an essential supply item 

for any outing. Keep emergency numbers for your doctor and your 

veterinarian on your phone.

• Carry sufficient disposable bags to pick up your dog’s waste, and pack 

it out. Do not leave it behind. Alternatively, if allowed by park/trail 

rules, you can bury pet waste in a hole 6-inches deep off the trail and 

at least 70 feet from water sources. 

Multi-day Hikes and Camping:

• Pack along plenty of drinking water or a water purification system. 

Drinking from creeks, ponds, and lakes can cause you and your pet to 

get sick. Filter and purify all water you cook with or your pet will drink.

• Pack sufficient food for your dog for the duration of the trip. Place in 

resealable bags or containers to avoid attracting pests.

• Bring appropriate heartworm and flea/tick preventatives that will 

provide sufficient coverage for the duration of the trip as well as insect 

repellants for you.

• Have a tent large enough for you and your pet. Some may consider 

tying up the dog, but always check to see if this is allowed in the park 

or camping area.

• Your first-aid kit should be of sufficient size to carry the medical and 

emergency supplies you and your dog may need while on the trail. 

You should research local emergency clinics and hospitals for you and 

your companion prior to the start of any long field/camping trip.

• Pack two collapsible nylon bowls: one for food and one for water.

• Other suggested items: a comb or brush for daily grooming; tweezers 

and a topical disinfectant for daily tick checks; a towel to wipe down 

fur and paws; an extra harness for better control on steep climbs or 

rough terrain; reflective collar or vest; toys or treats to break up the 

day; and dog boots for injured or sore paws. 

• Many hikers prefer to use dog packs for all of their dog’s gear. These 

require proper fitting as well as training for use. Consult your local 

outfitter for proper selection, size, and training guidance as well as 

your veterinarian to ensure your dog can carry the weight of the pack 

and its contents. 

Post Hike

Always conduct a thorough exam of your dog for ticks, sores, or injury 

during breaks, while hiking, as well as upon completion of the hike. If 

you have any concerns post-hike, consult your veterinarian. Wash all the 

hiking gear to keep it clean and ready for your next hike. 

Hiking with Your Dog

Calandar of Events

> Content contributed by Joseph G. Williamson, VMD, MPH, DACVPM, Veterinary Services and 

Public Health Sanitation Directorate, Army Public Health Center

June 

4-10

Pet Appreciation Week

Lifetime of Love -- The Basics: Seven days to a 

happier, healthier pet

Everyone loves their pets but not everyone is 

aware of what their pet needs from them to keep 

them happy and healthy long into their pet’s 

senior years. Leading veterinary experts in animal 

health, welfare, and behavior invite you to take 

each of the essential actions highlighted during 

National Pet Week® that are vital to achieving a 

Lifetime of Love.

http://www.petweek.org

July

15

Pet Fire Safety Day

Declared National Pet Fire Safety Day to 

Help Protect Pets from Home Fires

http://www.nvfc.org

August

15 National Check the Chip Day

25 National Bring Your Cat to the Vet Day 

26 National Dog Day

AVMATM National Pet Week.® Lifetime of Love. 

http://www.petweekorg (accessed 24 March 2017).
P3

What is a “Pocket Pet”?

“Pocket Pet” is a general term used to describe 

a small mammal, such as a guinea pig, mouse, 

rat, gerbil, or hamster. These little creatures are 

exceptional choices for many people seeking 

the right pet for their busy lifestyle. 

Why own a pocket pet?

Pocket pets can be ideal companions for 

people of all life stages. City dwellers living 

in apartments with limited space, families 

with young children, and seniors with limited 

mobility are all good candidates to own 

pocket pets. They do not require regular 

walking, expensive grooming, or complicated 

feeding schedules, and most are extremely 

gentle to handle. All pets are individuals with 

their own personality and the ability to form 

relationships with their owners. Pocket pets 

can provide the human-animal bond people 

crave with less cost and maintenance than 

larger pets like dogs and cats.

I want a pocket pet—now what?

Discuss any special health concerns affecting 

you or family members with your doctor and 

your veterinarian prior to getting any pet. If 

you are considering adding a pocket pet to 

your family, the next step is to consult with 

your veterinarian. Your family veterinarian 

can help you choose the correct pet for your 

lifestyle. For example, if your family gets up 

early for work and school, your veterinarian 

may steer you away from hamsters. They are 

nocturnal creatures, and their nighttime play 

may keep you awake at night, especially if you 

plan on keeping their cage in your bedroom. 

They can also educate you on “husbandry,” 

which is the appropriate care of your new 

pet. Each of these animals has different 

requirements for diet, cage size, socialization, 

and health care. If you are set on only having 

one pet, your veterinarian may steer you 

towards a hamster since they frequently live 

as solitary creatures. Rats, 

on the other hand, love to 

socialize and prefer to live with other rats. 

Before you bring your new, small family 

member home, remember to stock up on 

everything you need to make your pocket pet 

comfortable.

• A cage made of appropriate materials with 

enough space for play, sleep, and eating

• Bedding material

• Cleaning supplies

• Food and water dispensers

• Correct food for your type of pocket pet

• Play toys to keep their environment 

interesting

Which pocket pet is right for me?

While there are many different types of pocket 

pets to choose from, here are a few of the 

more common types:

• Guinea pigs tend to be very docile and 

gentle enough to be handled by younger 

children with adult supervision. They 

frequently communicate through a series 

of whistles, especially when you are giving 

them their favorite treats. Guinea pigs are 

low-maintenance and easy to enjoy. 

• Rats are loyal, affectionate, and rarely bite. 

Although they are usually seen as pests, 

they have been kept as pets for centuries 

and are actually among the cleanest of 

the pocket pets and do not shed. Their 

intelligence and highly developed ability 

to bond with their owners make them a 

perfect pet choice. They are also relatively 

easy for little hands to manage with adult 

supervision. 

• Mice, gerbils, and hamsters can become 

used to human contact with regular 

handling, but they move quickly and are 

easy for children to drop. Their small size 

makes them more prone to injury, so it is 

essential for parents to monitor their 

children as they handle mice, 

hamsters, or gerbils to prevent 

injuries to the pets and bites 

to the children. Additionally, 

the smaller pocket pets are 

fascinating to watch as they 

play with toys and explore their 

environment.

Where do I get my pocket pet?

Although pet shops are a source for 

pocket pets, they are not your only choice. 

Unfortunately, just like dogs and cats, 

unwanted pocket pets frequently end up 

at animal shelters. Many local shelters have 

online listings of available pets to consider 

for adoption. You may want to contact your 

shelter to submit an adoption application and 

express an interest in adopting one of these 

little creatures when they come in. You can 

also find pocket pet “fanciers” (people who 

exhibit and breed pocket pets). These groups 

can be a good resource for new owners. 

Pocket pet shows are great opportunities 

to see beautiful and unusual types of small 

mammals that are not easy to find anywhere 

else and may be a great adoption choice for 

your family.

What else do I need to know to start a good 

relationship with my pocket pet?

Pocket pets tend to be healthy animals, but 

they can get diseases and parasites just like 

other pets. It is important to bring your new 

pet to your veterinarian shortly after adoption 

to make sure it is healthy. Knowing that young 

children reside in your home may change 

your veterinarian’s recommendations for 

your pocket pet’s health care and husbandry. 

Make sure that children learn to wash their 

hands after handling pets. Although it is 

rare, bacterial diseases and parasites can be 

transmitted from pets to people. Learn what is 

normal for your pocket pet. They are excellent 

at hiding illness, so if you notice changes in 

your pet’s appetite, waste output, appearance, 

or activity level, call your veterinarian.

Few pets can give the enjoyment of pocket 

pets with such a relatively small investment of 

time and money. With proper care and regular 

handling, pocket pets will provide you with 

years of enjoyment and affection.

> Article contributed by CPT Kenyon J. Conklin, VMD, Public 

Health Activity-Fort Gordon, Fort Benning Veterinary Services

These little creatures are exceptional choices for many 

people seeking the right pet for their busy lifestyle.

Pocket Pets

A veterinarian can help 

you choose the correct pocket pet for your lifestyle.
Comments or questions regarding content can be directed to ARMY-VSPublications@mail.mil

Subscribe to the electronic issue of Veterinary Connections by emailing: usarmy.apg.medcom-aphc.mbx.iph-vet@mail.mil. 

Place ” Veterinary Connections” in the subject line.

Locate your local Veterinary Treatment

Facility at https://tiny.army.mil/r/JG66r/VTFs

Goal of publication:

• Veterinary Connections is a quarterly publication written by Army Veterinary Service personnel and published by the Army Public Health 

Center to inform and educate Service members, beneficiaries, and retirees about Animal Health, Food Safety, and One Health.

• One Health refers to the intersection and overlap between animals, humans, and the environment. 

• Army Veterinary Service personnel serve around the world supporting the Department of Defense as proponents for Animal Health and 

Food Protection.

Approved for public release, distribution unlimited. TA-349-0617 APHC Veterinary Service

Veterinary

http://phc.amedd.army.mil

1-800-222-9698

> Article contributed by CPT Ashley M. Hydrick, DVM, Public Health Activity-Fort Gordon, Eglin AFB Veterinary Services

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 

bond between people and their pets carries numerous health benefits 

for the pet owner to include increased fitness, lower stress levels, and 

improved mental health. However, there are some risks associated 

with pet ownership, especially for those who are immune-suppressed 

or immunocompromised. An immunocompromised individual is one 

whose immune system is impaired or weakened to the point it does 

not respond normally to infections. Millions of people in the United 

States are immunocompromised. A person’s immune system may 

be “suppressed” or compromised for a number of reasons, including 

illness (e.g., HIV and some cancers), necessary medical treatments (e.g., 

chemotherapy), pregnancy, and age. 

Pet ownership is possible for these individuals, but additional 

precautions should be taken. The two biggest concerns are preventing 

the spread of disease and accidental injury resulting from a pet. Many 

animals carry diseases without becoming ill themselves. As a general 

rule, adult dogs and cats older than 1 year of age are the safest for 

immunocompromised individuals because they are the least likely 

to carry diseases without showing signs. Other species of pets carry 

increased risk and should be avoided by persons with a compromised 

immune system. 

If you or someone in your home is immunocompromised, follow these 

general guidelines:

• Visit your veterinarian. Ensure a veterinarian examines your pet at 

least twice a year to maintain their vaccinations and to ensure they are 

free from internal and external parasites and infectious diseases. 

• Wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap. It is 

especially important after touching your pet and especially after 

handling their bedding, food, or waste. 

• Keep your pets clean. Bathe your dog or cat regularly to decrease 

dander and environmental contaminants from building up in their 

coats. Wash bedding and areas they routinely occupy to prevent 

accumulation of excess dirt and debris.

• Carefully choose your pet’s diet. Only feed pets high-quality 

commercial pet food. Any other food you may give your pet should 

be thoroughly cooked. Never feed raw food diets to your pet. Ensure 

water sources are sanitary. Keep toilet lids down to prevent your pet 

from drinking toilet water.

• Prevent roaming. Keep cats indoors and walk dogs on a leash or 

exercise them in a secure fenced yard to limit contact with other 

animals. Spay or neuter your pet. This will decrease their urge to roam.

• Prevent scratching and biting. These measures may include routinely 

trimming/filing their nails; applying rubber caps to your pet’s nails; 

special or additional obedience training; wearing long sleeves and 

pants to protect your arms and legs. Clean any scratches or bites 

immediately with warm water and soap and consult your doctor as 

soon as possible.

• Avoid handling animal waste. Ask family, friends, or neighbors with 

healthy immune systems to help. There may even be a professional 

“pooper-scooping” service in your area. For immune-suppressed 

individuals handling animal waste, wear gloves and wash your hands 

thoroughly upon completion. Wear a dust mask and gloves when 

cleaning out litterboxes or working in dusty conditions.

• Prevent your pet from coming into contact with food and 

preparation areas. Keep cats off kitchen and bathroom counters. 

Always clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces before preparing 

food. Do not keep cat litter boxes or animal cages near food 

preparation areas.

• Communicate. Talk to your doctor and your veterinarian about your 

medical condition to see if pet ownership is ideal for you. They are 

there to help you and can provide additional information to help you 

and your pet live happy and healthy lives.

Pet ownership is possible for the immunocompromised individual. It has 

many benefits as long as the risks can be recognized and minimized. 

If you or someone you know is immunocompromised, talk to your 

doctor and veterinarian about your wishes for safe and healthy pet 

companionship. 

Pets and Immunocompromised Individuals 

Use of trademarked name(s) does not imply 

endorsement by the U.S. Army but is intended only 

to assist in identification of a specific product.