Trail Book:
Best Hikes with Dogs Oregon

Best Hikes with Dogs Oregon by Ellen Morris Bishop is a must read when choosing a trail to hike with your four legged walking buddy. Morris Bishop and her dogs Meesah and Dundee have hiked more than 750 miles together in Oregon. She shares their 75 favorite trails that are all dog friendly, and dog safe. Part one of the book is hiking tips for dogs and people. She covers hiking gear for both you and your dog, first aid, trail etiquette, hazards, and how to use the book.

Part two is all about the trails. They are listed according to the region. Throughout the book are great photos of her happy dogs on hikes, as well as maps of all the hikes. Each hike has the round trip mileage, elevation, total hiking time, difficulty rating, best season to hike, regulations, maps, and contact information. Hit the trails this spring with your dog and make a goal to walk all 75 trails. Published by The Mountaineers Books, Seattle, WA.
ISBN 978-89886-944-6

iFitness Mini Sport Belt

This new kid on the block comes in two different models, the Single Neoprene Pouch and the Double Neoprene Pouch. They are water resistant and will keep your phone, Blackberry, money, energy bar or whatever you decide to pack dry. The belt has two reflectors for night time safety. There is an inner pocket in the pouch where you can keep your ID/credit cards or room key in place. You can even use it as a race number belt — just add hooks. It is extremely light and comfortable. I have used mine to carry my dog's ball and poop bags to the park. For more information go to www.ifitness.com.

The Montecito Bag by Overland Equipment

For over 27 years, Overland Equipment has designed, developed, and manufactured bags with the consistent intent to provide well-organized solutions for active, everyday use. It all started in a Chico, CA garage with some cloth, a pair of scissors, and a passion for making useful, durable bags. Overland is still passionate about creating unique, innovative products with authentic materials, heavy-duty construction, and organization for your everyday essentials. They’ve updated their brand identity, but the bags are still and always will be made with the same thoughtfulness, simplicity and natural ruggedness of their Chico roots.

For a weekend getaway or a trip to the gym — this bag’s got you covered. It’s designed to fit in the gym locker, yet roomy enough to carry your shoes, yoga mat, and all your daily essentials.The bag has a separate shoe pocket, yoga mat straps, adjustable shoulder strap, and tote handles.
The bag’s MSRP is $85. You can find the bag at your local REI or
go to www.overlandequipment.com to find a dealer nearest you.