Dogs, Wildlife, & the 6th Principle

We can't believe it's already August

In this edition, we talk a lot about the 6^th Principle: Respect Wildlife.

Check out the recent research paper on The Canine Conundrum: Is a Dog a Help or Hindrance in Bear Country?, using the "rule of thumb" for viewing wildlife, and some tips on how to Leave No Trace with your dog.

Cliquez ici pour consulter cette infolettre en francais

The Canine Conundrum: Dogs and Human-Bear Conflicts

Many of us love sharing an outdoor adventure with our four-legged friends and already know that the Leave No Trace Principles apply to them too. The most important thing we can do is keep them under control, especially around wildlife. Keeping your dog on a leash is one of the most effective ways to respect wildlife, protect your pet, and help prevent dangerous encounters.

A recent CBC News-cited study analyzed 326 reported human–bear conflicts involving dogs between 1901 and 2023 and found that 54% of conflicts were initiated by dogs. The study also found that injuries were 4.5 times more likely for people with off-leash dogs than those with leashed dogs, and that off-leash dogs were involved in more bear encounters.

Following Leave No Trace Principle #6: Respect Wildlife means keeping your dog under control, knowing the risks, and giving wildlife the space it needs. When we choose to adventure with our dogs responsibly, we help protect wildlife, ourselves and our furry companions.

Check out the article and study below!

Off-leash dogs increase chance of human-bear conflict: study (CBC News)

Use the "Rule of Thumb" (Literally!)

Viewing wildlife is one of the many reasons we all love to get outdoors but did you know that there is a trick to know where you should stand when viewing wildlife like bears?

It's called the rule of thumb! All you have to do is hold your thumb up at arm’s length, close one eye, and see if you can completely cover the animal with your thumb. If you can’t, you’re too close. Take a few steps back and try again.

Giving wildlife plenty of space helps keep both you and the animal safe.

Learn How!

More info and how to apply!

Help Shape Outdoor Ethics Education in Canada!

We are looking for passionate educators, outdoor professionals, researchers, recreation leaders, and community members to join our Education Committee.

The committee provides expertise and guidance to strengthen how Leave No Trace principles are taught, shared, and put into practice across Canada. Members meet virtually every other month, with an expected commitment of under 5 hours per month. It’s a great opportunity to contribute your expertise, connect with others working in outdoor education and recreation, and help shape the future of Leave No Trace in Canada.

For more information and how to apply, click the link. Apply before September 14th!

Events and News Spotlight

Montreal Climate Week is September 8^th - 13^th

Mark the date! The annual citywide festival is bringing together individuals, communities, businesses, institutions, and governments to turn the climate conversation into concrete action.

Through bold programming and collective momentum, the festival is building a dynamic, multilingual, and multidisciplinary movement where many voices coexist, ideas become action, and cultural change produces real and lasting impacts.

Click the link below for more information and check out what they have scheduled!

Learn More

Is it Safe to Exercise in Extreme Heat and Smoky Skies?

For many parts of Canada, it has been a smoky and hot summer and with that comes the question of "should I still exercise?".

As heat waves, wildfires and smoke-choked skies become commonplace for more communities, it’s important to safely adjust your outdoor exercise to the new realities of climate change.

Using strategies like exercising in the early morning or indoors can help us to stay active, even when the Air Quality Health Index or humidex are particularly high.

Check out the article from the UBC Faculty of Medicine for more guidance on exercising in high heat or smoke.

Learn More

Leave No Trace Principles — With Your Dog

If you read our first message and were surprised to hear that the Leave No Trace Principles also apply to your dog, this is for you!

#2) Travel on durable surfaces

Just like you, your dog should stay on the trail. This prevents erosion, avoids disturbing nests and protects sensitive areas.

#3) Dispose of waste properly

This is a given. Your dog's poop is your responsibility; don't leave it on the side of the trail.

#4) Leave what you find

Don’t let your dog dig or disturb natural features. Check them for anything they might carry onto or away from the trail.

#6) Respect wildlife

Keep your pup away from wildlife. Keeping them leashed is one of the best ways to ensure this.

#1) Plan ahead & prepare

Know whether dogs are permitted, make sure your dog can handle the terrain and conditions, and bring what they need. Always bring a leash.

#7) Respect others

Don't let your dog disrupt others enjoying the outdoors. Always keep them under control.

Explore the 7 principles of Leave No Trace with Your Dog!

Leave No Trace Canada | 7333 St-Denis Street | Montreal, QC H2R2E5 CA

Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice