b'Happy Trails With Your Dogby Nicole GellerAs we welcome another Fall in Florida,and white, long-sleeved shirts are recom- you are on the trail. Consider purchasing do I hear a woof woof for cooler temps?mended. Lighter colored clothing is use- a whistle to use in case of an emergency.A flurry of activities awaits usfrom fes- ful because if a tick latches on, it is easierAs a Tampa native of 54 years, I love tivalstoholidayeventsandfundraisers.to find. where I live, and hope you will find the Whileyourdogiseagertoparticipate,beauty of Florida like I have.The most remember that not all places and eventsimportant take-home message is: be safe, will be dog friendly. beaware,andkeepitfunforyouand Outdoorenthusiastsarebecomingyour dog.Umore engaged with their dogs. If youre looking to really connect with your dog andnature,considerabeautifultrail run/walk. Withcoolerweathergoing forward, we can take advantage any time of the day. We still need to be mindful of the heat index.What are the positive benefits of trail running/walkingwithyourdog? The mental health benefits are endless. Stress reduction, lowering the risk of depression andenhancingcreativitythroughcon-necting with nature, to list a few.The social benefits of bonding with your dog andotherhumansonthetrailare tremendous.Plus,thechancetoclear your mind and seek the true beauty ofPhotograph by Anna Cookenice temps in Florida is a bonus.Theterrainonatrailrun/walkisNicole Geller and Lois Lanenot as hot as asphalt.Plus, the joints and paws of your dog will appreciate the softFamiliarize yourself with what poi-ground.Trail shoes are an option for yousonivy,poisonsumac,andpoisonoakCleveland Clinicand your dog.Remember to mark/sitelook like.Immediately wash any areas of and be aware of the path you decide toskin contacted by these plants.Keep your take on the trail.All trees, birds, and trail- dog on a leash the entire time.Balance isSuggested trails around the Tampa Bay area: heads begin to look alike.And dont for- important as you and your dog navigateBalm Boyette get, Florida continues to be the lightningthrough the trails.I recommend a hands- YAlafia capital of the United States, so be mindfulfree leash.A dog harness is a good ideaStarkey Park of locating a safe area in case a storm popstoo. Lettuce Lake Park up unexpectedly.Proper nutrition before, during, andMorris Bridge Nature Preserve (East Side Ticks, snakes, gators, turtles and deerafter should be considered. If youre reallyof the park) arecommonlyfoundonFloridatrailserious about regular trail runs/walks, talkHillsborough River State Park runs/walks.We are as curious about theseto your dogs veterinarian about proper Brooker Creek Preservecreatures as our dogs are.Check for ticksnutrition. Of course, staying hydrated onFlatwoods Park(ears/earcanal,feet,undersideofthethetrailiskeyforyouandyourdog.tail).Basically,anyplaceonyourdogLeave No Trace is the motto of trailCheck out Florida Hikes for dog-friendly whichismoistandhasdarkerareas.runner/walker devotees. Please use refill- hikes, trails across Florida: Thesesamerulesapplytohumans.ablebottles,andremembertopickupwww.FloridaHikes.com/hikes-with-dogsRemembertocheckyourselfforticks.after your dog. Dont forget the bug spray and sunscreenBe aware, and prepared, that you may for your and your dog.Rugged leggingsnot have cell service depending on where 60THE NEW BARKERwww.TheNewBarker.com'