I hadn’t thought of using ice cream bowls – I have two fold away bowls, but they just aren’t big enough! My other option was to just use a camping plate (the ones with the lip), but I think I prefer the ice cream bowl idea!

We have a support vehicle trailing us which we will see every three or so days, and I know which campsites we are staying at, so I think a combination of posting food packages and resupplying should cover it. There will be a few local shops, but I can’t necessarily rely on them!

I am not convinced by the boots – my dog hates anything like that (she is grumpy enough with her harness). I can just imagine them making her experience of the whole walk really negative! On most days, we are just doing 15 miles or so, which she is quite used too, so I am hoping, with good paw care, she should be ok with her pads. I am expecting the terrain to be quite varied and damp which should also help.

I have thought about the pack – and quite a few people seem to recommend them, however I can’t see what I could put in it that isn’t too bulky – the heaviest items are the food and the water. Also I am worried the extra weight would increase potential paw soreness!

Great tip with the wool.

It should be a great trip! Thanks again for supporting us

Don’t know if it’s of any help mate but here’s my 2 cents from walking the Essex Way last september with my 6 year old, Chino.

1) Bowls. I took Tesco Ice cream tubs (the clear plastic ones) for food and water bowls. Pretty tough, light but strong and stackable. Big enough for a good size meal.

2) Food. I carried enough dry food in large ziploc’s for a couple of days at a time, Being in bags they squish into spaces in the pack and are easier to pack. Now, i was lucky and had several shop visits planned along the way where i could get tins as i passed, cutting down on the weight. Often feeding her while outside the shop and using the bins right there to lose the can. I don’t know if the Dyke is as populated by shops, so here’s my other idea. Are there other businesses along the way that you could arrange pre-sent packages to be picked up as you passed? Its a similar system used on the Appalachian Trail where hikers send parcels ahead to local post offices. Perhaps if you found places (YHA?) along the Dyke who would be receptive to the idea of holding dog food (and perhaps other stuff) until you came through?

3) Boots. I think thats a good idea. Chino’s pads were this][close to being in trouble (down to pink and soft instead of leathery) after 81 miles, and that was spread over 2 weekends with 26 miles being the longest single day. But maybe get them soon, and just like your own boots start out with short walks to build up her acceptance and allow for any potential chafing to be seen now instead of later. Speaking of chafing, look for and collect any wool you find stuck on walls and fences as you pass through. It’s a great natural defence when inserted between your boots and any upcoming blisters.

4) Doggy pack. Great idea, let her do some of the work! But again, get it soon and get her used to it with weight added (and look for potential chafing points, the nylon in the picture will get gritty and rub).

Dunno if this of any use at all, but hope it helps. Good luck, i’m dead jealous. I’ll be chucking some cash in the bucket, and i’ve suggested you as a charity for our company “Jeans Day”.

BTW, I didn’t see your Viewranger Buddy Beacon details. I’ll add you into my phone and follow you while i’m out with Chino.

Tim.

Not sure about dog boots though – I have never come across them before outside dog “fashion” clothing. My concern would be that, like with human boots, they would be liable to rub and that, after a few bogs, they would be a breeding ground for bacteria. Have you seen them used before?

The one thing I am yet to find out about is whether there is any treatment for sore pads – is there a cream or something that can be applied?

[I should also note that my dog's welfare is paramount to me - the support vehicle, which is tracking us throughout the walk, will take the dog between stops (and to the vet if necessary) should she have any problems at all - that said she is way fitter than me!]

A quick google should find some.