Help Otis get the message out to dog parents: share these tips

Meet Otis the Bernese mountain dog, our Paws For Larimer County Trails "ambassadog." Otis knows dogs make for great companions out on the hiking trail. That's why most Larimer County parks and open space trails are open to dogs as long as they are on leash. This spring and summer Otis is helping spread the word that following a few basic rules and tips will keep our trails safe and enjoyable for all. 

Here are tips and rules for bringing dogs to Larimer County parks and open spaces. 

• LOVE ‘EM? LEASH EM: Keeping your dogs leashed minimizes conflicts with other visitors and ensures that wildlife is safe. Dogs can scare or disrupt wildlife when left to roam.
• Just DOO It!: This means packing out any and all dog waste from the trails and campgrounds you visit.
• Pick it up, pack it out: Many hikers leave bagged dog waste alongside the trail to "pick up later" and then forget to collect it on their way back. Please pick up and pack all waste bags immediately and dispose of them at trailhead trashcans.
• Keep wildlife wild: Keep your dog under your physical control and do not allow your dog to harass wildlife in any way. This includes preventing them from actively chasing after wildlife, or running off trail where wildlife and birds may be nesting or hiding.

VIDEO: Otis rates his owner for how well she picks up out on the trail. How would your dog rate you?

• Be kind to others: While your fur-baby may be the best of pups, be aware that some people find dogs intimidating or unwelcome in their personal space. Please be courteous by keeping your leashed dog close and under your control as others pass.
• Bring plenty of water: Make sure there's enough hydration for everyone, including your dog
• Watch the weather: On hot days, leave your dog behind. Hot pavement and trail is especially hot on dog paws.
• Be in the know of where to go: Dogs are allowed at all of our parks and open spaces--except Red Mountain Open Space and Rimrock Trail at Devils' Backbone Open Space. If you have any doubt, please check Cotrex for what's allowed before heading to the trail.Thank you for making our trails happy places for everyone.  

Paws for Larimer County Trails photo contest!
 

1. Simply post your image to your social media account using the hashtag #PawsforLCTrails and tag us at @lcnaturalresources.  
2. Tell us what good trail etiquette and stewardship means to you and your dog. Our first choice winner gets hiking socks, a water bottle and a folding dog-water bowl! Second place winner will receive a travel dog-water bowl. 

VIDEO COLLECTION: MORE MESSAGES FROM OTIS ABOUT HIKING WITH DOGS

Pick it up, pack it out! Picking up keeps every happy on Larimer County parks and open spaces. 

Are you leashing your dog while on Larimer County Parks and Open Spaces? This video tells why it's required.