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Want to take your small dog on an urban hike or a nature trek? A dog backpack carrier might be the perfect accessory. It is ideal for carrying your small, disabled, injured or senior dog in extreme weather. Just to note: a dog backpack is one a human wears to carry dogs, typically of small weight, and should not be confused with a backpack made for dogs to carry (for example, this DayPak Saddleback Dog Backpack from Outward Hound or this Front Range Day Pack from Ruffwear) or an emergency sling to carry injured dogs back to the car when out hiking (like this Airlift Emergency Dog Rescue Sling).

Uses for dog backpack carriers

Dogs should use their legs if possible, says Paula Stewart, director at The Animal Talent. Many dogs hate having their movement restricted by a backpack carrier. It changes how they use their senses. This mental shift of being carried in a backpack rather than using their own legs can have a big impact on their minds. But, there are times when dog carrier backpacks are essential. They include:

• When the pavement is in direct sunlight, it can reach 125°F, even if it is only 77°F. Your pup’s paws can burn in 35 seconds. If you can’t touch the asphalt for seven seconds, grab a backpack carrier.
• Is the temperature below 32°F? Use a backpack carrier to prevent frostbite.
• If your aging or injured small dog can’t go on long walks, a backpack carrier will keep him mentally spry. It is also helpful for climbing flights of steps or steep hills.
• Most toy dog breeds can hike up to 10 miles. Planning a multi-day hiking trip? Backpack carriers can help dogs get over areas with logs, stumps and rocks.

What to look for in a dog backpack carrier

Paula says that a high-quality backpack carrier should work for all activities. Here are a few types to choose from:

• Hard-sided backpack carriers are waterproof and easier to clean.
• Soft-sided backpack carriers are more comfortable but not as roomy.
• Front carriers can also help dogs feel more secure. It is natural for them to face forward when moving.

Before getting your dog a backpack carrier, examine its size and what it is made from. Here are some things Paula says you should look for:

1. The backpack should be large enough that your dog should be able to comfortably turn around.
2. Pick one that is within your dog’s size or weight range. Most dog backpacks have size or weight recommendations. There are dog backpacks made specifically for small dogs and for large dogs.
3. Look for lightweight fabrics, as they are easier to carry.
4. You’ll want durable zippers and mesh windows.
5. Cushioning is key as it can also absorb shock and stop your dog’s skin from rubbing.
6. Get one with extra pockets for poop bags, water bowls and bottles. But these features shouldn’t make it hard for your pup to move.
7. Backpack carriers should also be waterproof because wet dogs that can’t shake dry will not be happy.

Dog backpack carrier safety

Dog backpacks aren’t just as simple as putting your dog in the pack and putting it on your shoulders. There some basic safety rules to follow:

• Backpack carriers are safe when you follow the weight limit that the manufacturer recommends. Don’t put a 30-pound dog in a backpack rated for 20-pound dogs.
• Always fasten your dog’s leash to the D-ring inside his backpack. Ensure the leash is long enough for his feet to touch the ground if he manages to jump out.
• Dogs should only ride in backpack carriers for 30 minutes. Let them stretch their legs on terra firma, Paula says. Couple this with common sense. While a backpack carrier can accommodate your 25-pound dog, you might not be able to carry him for 10 miles.
• Flat-faced breeds (brachycephalic) may have trouble breathing in a seated position. When they are in a backpack carrier, they may need to lie face-down to cool off.
• Dogs with skin conditions may struggle in soft backpacks if the fabric chafes their bodies.
• Have a dog with a medical condition or a behavioral problem like confinement anxiety? Talk to your vet.

Interested in getting a dog backpack? Here are some examples of small dog backpacks, large dog backpacks and dog backpacks for hiking:

1. Poochpouch Backpack Dog Carrier; outwardhound.com — for dogs under 20 pounds
2. K9 Rucksack; kurgo.com — for dogs under 25 pounds
3. Kolossus Big Dog Carrier & Backpacking Pack; k9sportsack.com — for dogs between 20 and 80 pounds
4. Dog Perch Backpack; toughtraveler.com — a hiking-quality backpack that is for dogs up to 35 pounds.

As the number of pet parents increases, so does the strain on the veterinary workforce. According to a Mars Veterinary Health Report, the United States is experiencing a veterinarian shortage that, if not addressed, could leave 75 million pets without care by 2030.

Why are we having a shortage of veterinarians?

Experts agree that the increase in families bringing pets into their homes during the COVID pandemic put a strain on the services required from the veterinarian community.

Aside from there not being enough physical space to care for pets, particularly in emergency vet hospitals, where patients are regularly being turned away, the veterinarians on duty are working longer and harder hours, leading to higher rates of turnover.

“It saddens me to hear stories from across the country of emergency veterinary clinics having to shut down due to being short-staffed or overwhelmed,” says Dr. Louis DelGiudice, National Emergency Specialty Director of AmeriVet Veterinary Partners.

Over the next decade, to meet the healthcare services needed to accommodate the influx of pets, the Mars health report states that the United States will need about 41,000 additional veterinarians and nearly 133,000 vet techs to join the workforce.

What’s being done to address the veterinary shortage?

Organizations are working on furthering veterinary education programs. This year, the VCA animal hospitals partnered with Vet Set Go to give kids nationwide an opportunity to explore their interests in veterinary medicine with the hope of it blossoming into a career.

According to research by Vet Set Go, veterinary medicine professionals often decide to pursue animal health as their career before 13 years old. Through this partnership, teenagers will train with veterinarians to get a realistic expectation and understanding of what it’s like to care for animals.

“We are providing aspiring veterinarians with resources and opportunities that otherwise are not easily available to young people,” says Dr. Chris Carpenter, Founder and President, Vet Set Go.

Other efforts to widen the veterinary field include the launch of a new multi-year program called Journey for Teams — a partnership by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Veterinary Medical Association Executives to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the nation’s veterinary profession.

Improving the health of each veterinarian

Many veterinarians struggle with mental health issues, both because of the increased workload and the emotional highs and lows that naturally come with working in a high-stress healthcare career. In fact, a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that veterinarians and veterinarian technicians have a higher suicide rate than the general population.

Efforts are being made to bring awareness to veterinarians’ mental health concerns. During Suicide Prevention Month in September, The Race Around the World is a month-long fundraiser that tracks the miles participants move, whether it’s biking, walking, running or horseback riding, and raises funds for the nonprofit Not One More Vet (NOMV). NOMV supports veterinarians struggling with mental health issues through peer support, outreach and awareness.

To learn more about this organization and how you can help, visit nomv.org.

The dreaded annual holiday card photo shoot. The stakes are high and the pressure is on. It’s hard enough to get your spouse and kids to clean up, dress up and smile for photos, but your dog, too?

Dogster interviewed a range of pet picture experts, from dog trainers to photographers, to get the top dog photography tips.

Pet holiday cards start with a solid plan

Before snapping away, think about what your vision is for the most touching, hilarious or memorable photo. Decide where your shoot will be, what your dog will be doing and what she will wear.