The Mountaineers
Trail Tails is a special feature showcasing the mutts of The Mountaineers! This month we recognize Oliver, owned by Mountaineer Travis Ruff.
Name: Oliver
Breed: Blue Heeler mix
Age: 5
WHEN DID oliver FIRST HIT THE TRAIL?
I adopted Oliver from a cattle dog rescue four years ago and we hit the trails almost immediately after. Cattle dogs need a lot of exercise otherwise they get frustrated and can be destructive, so it's good motivation to keep both of us active.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE OUTDOORS MEMORY WITH oliver?
My favorite memory is taking Oliver for his first hike up the Boulder River trail, the same trail as I took Ozzie, the dog I owned before him, on as his last hike. Although they never met it was a good way for me to bring them together and heal after losing Ozzie to cancer.
WHAT’S A FEAR YOUR PUP HAS OVERCOME, OR A TRAIL SKILL THEY’VE DEVELOPED?
When I first got Oliver he had never been out in the woods or mountains and everything scared him. Literally everything. Leaves, birds, animals, they all put him on edge. He's now very comfortable out in nature, but he's still scared of the dark.
WHAT’S oliver's FAVORITE THING TO BRING ON OUTDOOR ADVENTURES?
Oliver carries his own leash and refuses to go anywhere without it.
WHAT’S oliver's GO-TO TRAIL SNACK?
Oliver has been known to eat large amounts of beef jerky and I generally bring a second bag just for him.
FUN FACTS
- Our longest day was 28 miles and about 7,500’ of cumulative elevation, and he somehow still wanted to play fetch in the park when we got home.
- He is afraid of the dark and when I set up camp I have to turn on a small battery powered nightlight in the tent, otherwise neither one of us are getting any sleep.
- Refuses to carry anything on his back, but will gladly carry his leash in his mouth no matter how long the hike.
HIKING WITH DOGS
Remember, it's key to keep trail etiquette and leash laws in mind when you hit the trail with your dog. Always check to be sure that the area you are entering is dog-friendly, and pack more dog bags than you think you need.
Check out our guide on hiking with dogs, and remember to use the WTA's handy "dogs allowed'" filter on their Hiking Guide.
