DOGS ON TRAILS
DOGS on TRAILS
Ogden Nordic allows Dogs on the trails, however,
ALL DOGS MUST BE ON LEASH
(Weber County Ordinance #2-1-05)
WHY WE ASK YOU TO KEEP YOUR DOG ON LEASH:
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It is a Weber County Regulation
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Many skiers are beginners, focused on controlling their skis and poles. Adding a loose dog into that mix is not only intimidating but is dangerous (especially downhill).
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Dogs like to chase fast moving things, which may include a skier coming down a hill, which is a safety concern.
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There are many people who do not like dogs, and may not appreciate a happy, energetic off-leash dog approaching them. This is especially unappreciated if that person is also not yet comfortable on skis or just learning.
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Dog/wildlife (especially moose) interactions can be dangerous. We have moose on our trails. A moose will kill or dangerously injure a dog very quickly. Dogs off leash not only endanger the moose, but also could be at high risk for injury or death.
TIPS FOR ENJOYING YOUR DOGS ON THE TRAILS
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USE A HARNESS: When dogs are on leash attached to the collar, they often pull more and may be more aggressive.
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TRY A SKIJOR SET UP: Skijoring is cross-country skiing with the aid of a towing agent (dog). In dog skijoring, both dog and human wear harnesses, and are connected to each other by a tow line. A skijoring harness on the dog is better than a neck collar leash, because it allows the dog to move freely. The harness spreads the tension on the leash across the chest and shoulders and is much less stress on both the dog and the human. A skijor set up allows the skier to use their poles, since the dog is connected to a waist belt.
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Places to purchase skijor equipment include:
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www.ruffwear (choose skiing activity)
NOTE: If you are not comfortable keeping your dog on leash while skiing, please leave dogs at home until you do feel comfortable or consider snowshoeing with your dog on leash instead.
