What To Do If Your Dog Gets Injured On a Hike
You don’t think about it until it happens.
One second your dog is charging down the trail like a maniac with four legs and no survival instincts, and the next, they stop moving properly.
Maybe it’s an injured paw.
Maybe they slipped.
Maybe they’re overheating or completely exhausted.
Either way, you’re suddenly carrying panic instead of a backpack.
Step 1: Stop Moving
Don’t try to “walk it off.”
Find a safe spot, keep your dog calm, and let them rest for a minute while you figure out what’s happening.
If they’ll drink water, offer small amounts slowly.
Step 2: Check For Signs Something’s Wrong
Look for:
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Limping or refusing to walk
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Heavy panting
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Swelling
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Bleeding
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White gums
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Shaking or signs of pain
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Weakness or collapse
If something feels off, trust that instinct. Dogs are very good at hiding pain until they can’t anymore.
Step 3: Keep Them Stable
The less movement, the better.
Use whatever you have nearby to help support them temporarily, like a jacket, towel, or leash.
Your main goal here is simple:
Get them out safely without making the injury worse.
Step 4: Make a Real Exit Plan
This is usually the moment people realize how hard it actually is to carry a large dog.
Ask yourself:
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How far am I from the trailhead?
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Can I physically carry my dog that distance?
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Do I have help?
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Do I have equipment that makes this possible?
Adrenaline wears off fast. A 70 lb dog gets heavy even faster.
Step 5: Carry Your Dog Safely
Trying to carry a dog in your arms over uneven terrain is brutal, unsafe, and honestly not realistic for most people.
Experienced hikers prepare for emergencies the same way they pack water or first aid supplies.
That’s exactly why we created The Murphy Bag.
It’s designed to help carry medium and large dogs securely during emergencies, while keeping your hands free and your weight balanced as much as possible.
Because when something happens, figuring it out on the fly is a terrible strategy.
Step 6: Get Veterinary Care
Once you’re off the trail, head to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Waiting overnight to “see if they improve” can turn a manageable injury into something much worse.
Things Every Dog Owner Should Bring on a Hike
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Water + collapsible bowl
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Basic pet first aid kit
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Emergency contact info
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Extra leash
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A safe way to carry your dog if needed
The Reality
Most people prepare for the hike.
Very few prepare for the emergency.
And unfortunately, emergencies don’t send calendar invites.
Be prepared for the unexpected with The Murphy Bag.