How to make a Fake Rabbit Hole for your Dog

Disclaimer: this is NOT a sponsored post, but it does contain some affiliate links.

It’s no secret that I am OBSESSED with holes. After all, my breed was originally bred to go down holes and hunt down badgers.

ammo the dachshund digging

And go down holes I do! My mom has had to pull me out of many ground hog holes around the farm over the years, and because of my affinity to go hunting whenever I feel like it I now wear a GPS tracker whenever I’m on the farm. While my tracker gives mom piece of mind, she’d still prefer my escapades kept me a little closer to the barn, which is why she decided to dupe me!

So I decided to share how my mom made me a DIY Fake Rabbit Hole so all you other dogs out there won’t get tricked like I did!

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Rabbit Scent (or any other scent your dog might prefer)
  • Spray Bottle
  • Water
  • String (I used bailing twine)
  • Paper Towel
  • Shovel or Post Hole Digger

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

Step 1: Choose a spot to dig a hole about 2 feet deep. Make sure you choose a spot where no one could fall in it (placing a marker when it’s done is helpful too). A spot near a bush or tree makes it more believable to your dog as well.

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

As you can see just the sight of a hole was enough to get me interested!

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

Step 2: Mix your Rabbit Scent with some water in a spray bottle and mist it into the hole. You can make it stronger by foregoing the water if your dog doesn’t seem interested.

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

Step 3: Tie a paper towel to a string and mist with the rabbit scent. Drag the towel to and from the hole to leave a scent trail for your dog to follow.

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

Trooper and I picked up on the rabbit scent trail right away.

DIY Fake Scent Hole for Hunting Dogs // Ammo the Dachshund

But only one of us really cared…..I’m pretty sure you can guess who!

Well I feel pretty silly getting tricked with a fake hole, but I did have a really good time digging to my hearts content. So fake or not, I don’t regret it one bit. Well except for the fact that it landed me in the bath a few hours later!

Do you think your dog would be tricked by a fake scent hole?

*Be advised that fake animal scents can attract other wild animals as well. So be aware of where you are putting it, and make sure to supervise your dog especially if they are out at night.Ammo the Dachshund

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Disclaimer : This is a sponsored post and giveaway brought to you by Ruffwear. This Post also contains affiliate links.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Recently my pal Shilah the Husky and I got to test out a product by Ruffwear, the Roamer Leash for some of our hiking/walking excursions. It’s quickly jumped to the top of our list for must-have walking gear, find out why below!

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

One of the things that makes the Roamer Leash so unique is that it can be used as a hand-held leash or it can be extended to go around your waist too.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Mom found that being able to tether me to her waist made hiking and walking so much easier! Not only did she have her hands free to take photos like this one, but it made it easier to climb tough terrain as I helped to pull her up the hill (with my powerful muscles!).

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

I was also impressed by the Talon Clasp which was extra durable and made mom feel easier that I wouldn’t be able to break it open from pulling too hard.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Another important feature about the Roamer leash is that it’s extendable! The wavelength stretch webbing can extend from 7.3 feet to 11 feet on the Large (which is what you see pictured) or 5.5 feet to 7 feet on the small.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

It also comes with a handy accessory loop near the clasp for attaching dog bags or lightweight items and can also be used as a quick “short” leash when needed. Although the “short” leash works a little better for bigger dogs as I was a little too low to the ground for mom to grab the handle quickly or easily. But it’s not a necessary item, and mom found she didn’t need to use it much anyway.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

So with our new Roamer leashes Shilah and I embarked on a few recent hikes. Our first stop was the Stroud Preserve!

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Immediately our parents loved the fact that these leashes could extend with our pulling (and boy do Shilah and I like to pull) but weren’t as dangerous as zip leashes. With a zip leash you have to worry about rope burn (which has happened to my mom before) and you can’t grab the leash without hurting your hand in the event of an emergency. With the Roamer Leashes none of this was an issue as you can quickly grab the leash to pull your dog closer should you need to.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Shilah and I enjoyed our walk thoroughly with the Roamer Leash, and our parents had a nicer walk because when tethered to their waists our pulling was actually beneficial – helping to pull them up the hills (those lazy humans!)

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

The Roamer Leash also came in handy when it was time for Shilah and I to be tethered. The adjustable handle loop made it easy to tie us to any object on the trail when necessary.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

As you saw last week, Shilah and I even tested our Roamer leashes on some tougher terrain when we visited Glen Onoko Falls.

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Again, the ability to tether to our parent’s waists made the rocky terrain that much more manageable since the humans had their hands free to help themselves and us make the climb.

Shilah and I both agree the Roamer Leash has become our new favorite leash for all of our hiking and walking adventures! We highly recommend it!

And now for the best part….

Ruffwear Roamer Leash Review & Giveaway

ONE Lucky WINNER will WIN a Large Ruffwear Roamer Leash!

Here’s HOW TO WIN:

For this giveaway I will be using, Rafflecopter. We only use the information you provide to contact the winners and we never share it – so not to worry. Winners will be chosen at random and you will be contacted via e-mail to claim your prize. All the winners will also be announced on this blog post once the giveaway ends on 7/15/14 12AM EST. Open to USA residents only. Only one winner. Winners must claim their prizes within 48 hours of being notified or prize will be forfeited. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Ruffwear, but all opinions are my own! Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Dogs

As you saw yesterday, I went on a weekend camping adventure to the Pocono Mountains – in search of fun! Well aside from lounging around the campsite, my pal Shilah the Husky and I also went on a day-time adventure to hike the nearby Glen Onoko Falls.

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

After checking out some scenic overlooks we decided to hit up the popular trail to see some of the falls.

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking is one of my all-time favorite activities, in fact I get so excited that I charge up the trails like I was the lead sled dog instead of Shilah!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

This particular hike was quite rocky, but Shilah and I were up for the challenge!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Our parents were glad to have our new Ruffwear Roamer Leashes with them, which made the hike so much more enjoyable. Stay tuned on Monday for a full review on them, and a chance to win one for your dog!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

We crossed water and fallen trees, and mom found herself wishing we had one of Ruffwear’s Hiking Harnesses with the handle to lift me over obstacles like my hiking pals Chester & Gretel from You Did What With Your Weiner.

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Shilah and I made it pretty far up the hike before stopping for a group photo….because that’s how we roll! We didn’t make it all the way to the big waterfall at the top because the climb started to get pretty steep and our parents were worried about the decent for us dogs (although I totally could of made it!).

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

On the way back down we ran into these two pups. I warned them that they may wish they had leashes attached to their humans as it got higher – because we all know those of us with 4 legs have to keep those with 2 legs from falling off the side of the mountain!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

When we reached the bottom of our hike Shilah and I decided to take a dip in the river while our parents ate lunch.

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

I showed off my swimming skills to all the other pups hanging around the river, and I’m pretty sure they were all wishing they had a spiffy life vest just like me.

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

After cooling off Shilah and I decided to head into Jim Thorpe to grab some ice cream!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

Italian Ice was just what I needed after an invigorating hike!

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls with Ammo the Dachshund

I was sad to end my weekend full of camping and hiking, but I have to say it was nice to finally get back home to my air conditioning!

Rumor has it I won’t have to wait too long for my next camping adventure, as I’m headed off on another adventure soon….this time with my ponies! Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures in Disc Golf

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Last weekend I took a trip to the French Creek State Park – which would prove to be my first adventure on the Disc Golf Course.

A combination of frisbee and golf, the object is to get your frisbee into the provided targets at each hole.

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Of course I was a natural – as I am with most things! *wink*

Aside from the goal of throwing the frisbee around the course, there was quite a bit for me to investigate on this adventure.

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Being in the wilderness is one of my all time favorite things – but after a day of trekking around the course I was quite happy that this state park had a lake too.

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Adventures in Disc Golf // Ammo the Dachshund

Nothing like a dip in the water to beat the heat!

 

If you’re looking for a dog friendly adventure check out the French Creek State Park. The trails are pet friendly as is the boat rental. Also lots of camping areas that allow pets. Ammo the Dachshund

Road Trip with Ammo – Thanksgiving in North Carolina

On my last full day in Asheville, North Carolina I got to spend Thanksgiving day with my friends and family.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

I spent most of the morning lounging on the front porch and soaking in the sun.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

It was nice to spend the day relaxing with loved ones.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

Eventually Trooper and I got bored though – and a wrestling match soon followed. It didn’t last long though, because dinner was soon to be ready.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

Inside I shared a feast with my friends, including me new pal Arlo.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

Arlo was way prepared for Thanksgiving in his tuxedo, and he had me feeling very under dressed.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

All in all I spent a wonderful Thanksgiving day in Asheville and next time I return I hope I can listen to my Uncle Taylor’s band….I’ve already warned them that I play a mean set of drums…should the need arise.

Road Trip with Ammo the Dachshund // Thanksgiving Day

The next day Trooper and I stuffed ourselves back into the car and headed towards our home in Pennsylvania. It’s nice to travel and experience the world, but there is nothing quite like coming home to your own bed! Ammo the Dachshund

 

Road Trip with Ammo – Hiking Graveyard Fields in Asheville, North Carolina

My pet-friendly shopping adventures last week in Asheville, North Carolina were quite fun, but as much as I love scoping out a good deal, I enjoy being out in nature so much more.

I made sure to do my fair share of hiking while I was in North Carolina, and one of my favorite hikes was the Graveyard Fields and Waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

This particular 3 mile hike led me over bridges, up mountains and through scenic waterfalls.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Most of the time I led our pack of 6 humans and 2 dogs (me and Trooper), mostly because I’m a natural born leader, and also because Trooper was too concerned with herding our pack into a tidy little group than telling us which path to take (I blame his Australian Shepherd mother).

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

I’m an adventuresome hiker, and took to the unbeaten path when possible – climbing rocks and jumping streams are my kind of fun.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

When we reached one of our waterfall destinations I wasted no time in urging everyone to climb the cliffside and reach the top.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

It was glorious from above, but I quickly realized the decent down wouldn’t be quite as easy.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Not to worry though, because even with my shorter than average legs I’m an excellent climber – not to mention I’m in peak physical shape – and I made it safely to the bottom.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

I wish I could say the same for my pal Trooper, but he ended up taking the fast track down the mountain over a sheet of ice.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Luckily he has spider legs, and quickly recovered after splashing into the water at the bottom. I only wish I had caught it on film, because I probably would have won the grand prize on America’s Funniest Videos.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

3 miles of hiking felt like a breeze to me, and I easily could have done another 10.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

Mom and Dad promised we’d come back again someday though, perhaps in warmer weather. I can’t wait to return to Asheville for more hiking adventures.

Pet Friendly Hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina // Ammo the Dachshund

At the end of the day it was nice to snuggle up in my blankies at the hotel, it feels good to be worn out, and I did need to rest up, because soon it would be THANKSGIVING!

Check back tomorrow to find out how I spent Turkey Day with my family. Ammo the Dachshund