Anyone who's lived in Arizona will agree, this is an amazing place. Of course, as a native, I'm a little biased! Exploring our deserts, canyons, and forests with my own dogs is definitely one of my favorite pastimes. My love for hiking and for dogs is why I created this club. My goal is to provide a way for all the canine fanciers of AZ to meet other people like themselves and at the same time have some fun in the wild places of our diverse and beautiful state. So lace up your boots, grab a water bottle and whistle for your four legged buddy, it's time to hit the trail!

Frequently Asked Questions and Club Rules

Who are we?

The Canine Hiking Club of Arizona(CHCoA) began in January of 1999 as Arizona's only totally dog friendly outdoor club. The club is unofficial, meanning we do not have board members or membership dues. We function primarily as a networking group where dog loving outdoor enthusiasts can find hiking partners, post outings and just spend time with others who share a love for dogs. Events take place in various locations around the state and include, but are not limited to, hiking, camping, backpacking, snow play days, kayaking/canoeing, social gatherings, dog park play dates, BBQ's, and charity walks. We have "members" statewide in cities and towns like Phoenix, Glendale, Litchfield, Mesa, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Tucson, Sedona, Prescott, Cottonwood, and more. Outings cover a wide variety of skill levels so there's usually something for everyone.

Who can join?

Responsible owners and their dog(s) who enjoy outdoor activities. We welcome humans of all ages, genders, and marital status. Additionally, we welcome all dog breeds, pure or mixed. Dogs who are aggressive toward people or other dogs are NOT allowed at CHCoA events.**Every owner is responsible for keeping their dog(s) under control at all times. **

Responsible outdoor enthusiasts who love dogs. You do not need to be a dog owner to join the CHCoA but keep in mind this is a dog friendly group and 99% of our events will have dogs present. If you're not willing to put up with a little slobber, a friendly kiss or two, or several sad eyes staring you down while you eat lunch, then this group is not for you.

Participation Disclaimer - Must read before attending any club functions

Since the CHCoA is an unofficial non-profit group and each person is participating of their own will, you and you alone are responsible for your safety and that of your dog(s). Please act accordingly to ensure all outings are safe and fun for everyone. Additionally, neither Jamie DeBenedetto or any person taking on a role as "leader" assumes any responsibility for human or dog injury or death, loss of gear or personal belongings, and damage to vehicles at any time. Outdoor activities can be dangerous, it is your individual responsibility to be prepared if you choose to take part in a hike or other planned function. Participation in events is voluntary and all participants do so at their own risk. Your participation in any event you found via the CHCoA is acknowledgment that you have read and understand the above.

How do I get involved with the group?

Begin by reading the Participation Disclaimer located directly above this paragraph, then consider joining our message board (hosted by Yahoo Groups). "Members" use the message board to plan events, discuss club issues as well as topics related to hiking, dogs, trails, outdoor activities, equipment, etc. The board is private and a great way to meet other members, find a hiking partner, share trip reports, share pictures, locate dog friendly places around the state or just talk about your dog. The options are endless. It's free to join and you may receive messages via email or by visiting the Yahoo Groups site directly (you do not need a yahoo email address to use this service). Check it out here CanineHikingClubofAZ.

Next, explore this webpage further. We have compiled lots of good info. related to outdoor activies with canines. The Dogs Rule and Dottie's Corner pages in particular are very helpful. You'll also want to check out the Event's Calender Page. This is where many of the pre-planned outings are posted. If you see an event you want to attend, contact the person who has planned the function and tell him or her you want to join them. Please let him/her know how many humans and how many dogs will be joining you. If you leave a message, definitely include your phone number so they can contact you in case of a cancellation or in the event details about the outing change.

Finally, offer to lead a dog friendly outing yourself. This can be as simple as a short morning hike, a get together at the dog park or something more complicated - you choose. There is more information below regarding organizing events. Please read on and if you have questions contact Jamie D., the Club Organizer, directly.

Are there any rules I have to agree to abide by when I hike with the CHCoA?

**YES!** We expect everyone participating in CHCoA events to follow the four rules listed below.

1. Dogs must be under full owner control at all times. Arizona law states, you must have your dog on a leash no longer than 6' when in public. We expect all participants who choose to unleash their dogs during an outdoor event to have the ability to control the dog proficiently so as not to disturb other trail users, other club members or other animals in the area (trailstock, livestock, wild, etc.). Remember, not all outdoor enthusiasts enjoy dogs as much as we do! Furthermore, there are many situations where an unleashed dog will not be appropriate or legal. We expect owners to consider these factors and make decisions based on what is in the best interest of the people you are hiking with as well as what is most safe for the dog.
2. ALL dogs must be leashed while at trailheads or event staging areas and during ALL food and water breaks while on trail. We want outings to be fun for everyone, dog fights and/or other negative encounters can result in serious injuries and they create a stressful and unpleasant experience for everyone involved. PLEASE do not force the hike leader or any of your fellow hikers to police your actions by dismissing this very crucial safety precaution. If this is a continued offence you will be asked to leave the group and will not be allowed to participate in future outings.
3. Respect the wilderness at all times. Trails pass through public, private, state, and tribal owned lands. Out of courtesy we must practice the "leave no trace" philosophy. This includes avoiding littering, leaving cigarette butts, cutting trail switchbacks, removing or harming plants and animals, etc. Any items packed into an area must be packed out! Also, you are responsible for proper disposal of your dog's waste. Any person who fails to follow this state law will NOT be allowed to participate in future Canine Hiking Club of Arizona events.
4. Respect the rights of ALL area users. More and more, dogs are being banned from outdoor recreation areas. Sadly this is usually due to irresponsible owners who have no regard for the rules of the trail or recreation area or for those around them who may not be canine people. Please try to remember when you are participating with this group you are representing not only yourself but the entire club. Make sure your actions and the actions of your dog(s) are positive ones! (Trail use etiquette and policies regarding dogs on trails throughout the state can be found in the Dogs Rule section.)

Also,
**We strongly recommend all dogs have current vaccinations before partaking in a hike. Dogs over four months old should wear their rabies verification tag to all events. Because of the exercise requirements and the increased risk of disease transmission due to the exposure to many other dogs and populated areas, puppies under 12 weeks old are not encouraged to attend.

Is there a cost to join?

Nope. The CHCoA was not created for profit. There are, however, some expenses involved with keeping the group going. Therefore, we ask anyone who'd like to make a donation to contact Jamie D. or follow the directions below. All donations go directly to maintaining the CHCoA website, printing fliers for promotional events and the creation of club T-shirts periodically. Donations are voluntary and are not required for participation.

If you want to donate please send your check (made out to Jamie DeBenedetto), money order or cash to:
P.O. Box 31472, Phoenix AZ 85046.
When your donation has been received, Jamie will e-mail you to thank you for your contribution and let you know it arrived.

Do I get a say in club functions?

Absolutely. Via the yahoo group, we give all "members" a voice in how this group functions. We also openly welcome suggestions, criticism, comments, gripes, complaints, kudos, etc. regarding how the club is managed, what types of events we participate in and where outings take place.

There are three ways to make sure your voice is heard. First, join the CHCoA message board located on the Yahoo Groups site. Joining the board is easy and free. Click here to visit the Yahoo Groups site and look around. Second, if you are not already doing so, start attending functions. Third, contact Jamie D., the Club Organizer, and tell her what's on your mind. Jamie can be reached via email at jdeben@hotmail.com.

How do I organize an event?

We encourage anyone who wants to lead/plan and outing to do so. Events range from very easily planned (i.e. dog park play days) to more complex (i.e. multi-day outings) so do what you feel comfortable with and have fun.
We have compiled a list of suggested "Leader Guidelines". These are intented to assist you in the planning process. Obviously, sharing nformation about the event is important to potential hiking partners and makes preparing for the outing much easier. Here are some suggestions of things we like to see in your posted hike description, either on the Events Calendar or if you are just posting this via the yahoo group.

1. Information about the trail/area where the hike/event will take place. Things like total distance, elevation gain or loss, terrian type, whether or not there is water along the route, whether or not the trailhead(TH) has facilities, parking fees, vehicle requirements (car, 4x4), etc.. As much information as you can provide is helpful.
2. Honest disclosure about your experience with the trail or event area. Having been there is a plus but is not required. The main thing is to communicate this to your fellow participants. If you have not been to this location we usually call this a Scouting Trip. By making a note of this up front, those joining you will have their expectaions set when a setback, like missing the TH turn-off or backtracking along the trail, comes up.
3. Include your contact information. Posting your email and/or phone number is importatnt so interested members can contact you with questions or find out more about the function.

Leaders who organize 4 or more events in a year will receive a free club t-shirt. If you would like to help the club by listing something on the calendar or if you need help getting started, please do not hesitate to contact Jamie D. We are more than willing to assist with planning. The CHCoA runs completely on the involvement of our members to organize outings. Without YOU, this group cannot function.

CHCoA home

"My Dog Ate It" home

Friends of the CHCoA

Dog Obedience and Behavior Training

"My Dog Ate It" Dog and Owner Training - Director of Training Jamie J. DeBenedetto. CHCoA Members receive a $5 discount on group training classes, or $10 off if you enroll a friend and $10 off private lessons. E-mail for more details.

4-K9Solutions - Your dog is BEGGING to be trained! Professional Trainer and Behavioral Consultant Ken Desch offers both private and group sessions throughout the valley. We specializes in reprogramming neglected, abused and shy dogs, dog to dog and people aggression, and all special needs dogs. We offer instruction in search and rescue, service dog certification, snake avoidance, backyard agility, and flyball. Any puppy, adult dog and their humans and any situation. You have a K9 problem, we have a K9 Solution.
Call or email for more info. - k.desch@cox.net or 602-618-0446.

Dog Walkers

Four Paws Adventures - We give your dog the ULTIMATE dog treat: Exercise and Fun! Services include Hound Hikes, Dog Park Field Trips and Neighborhood Cardio Walks. Visit our webpage for more details. When you're ready to give your dog the physical stimulation they crave call us at 602-617-6419 or email mel@fourpawsadventures.com.

Scottsdale BARK - We are devoted to dog-lovers and dog-owners offering complete canine services. We specialize in dog-walking and pooper-scooper services for the Scottsdale, AZ community. Trusted for over 20-years, we are dog-owners and dog-lovers that believe each-and-every dog should be provided a healthy and happy life. Moreover, we understand how dog-owners cannot always be around to take care of their new puppy, or to walk their older dog; therefore, Scottsdale BARK provides the services to relieve all stress involved when you cannot be around for your best friends. Call or email for more details - Scott@scottsdalebark.com or call 480.399.3279.

Grooming

Animal Attractions Mobile Pet Grooming - We pamper all breeds of dogs and cats. Our luxury mobile salon will come right to your door so you never have to leave home. Valleywide. For an appointment call us at 1-888-330-PETS or 602-564-1600 or email: animalattraction@qwest.net.

Karen Barry's Certified Dog Grooming - Karen offers loving care in a cage free environment at reasonable prices. Large dogs welcome. Servicing Sun Lakes and surrounding areas. Call for more information 480-802-0870 or 480-818-3115 (cell). CHCoA Members receive a 15% discount on services.

Miscellaneous

	Edible Arrangements - We specializes in creating delicious fresh fruit designs filled with strawberries, pineapple, grapes, oranges, cantaloupe and honeydew melon. They are perfect for any occasion from birthdays, thank you, congratulations and sympathy, to business events, client gifts and employee appreciation. All ingredients are natural, no preservatives or sweeteners are used.
Order on-line: www.ediblearrangements.com or call the Phoenix store: 602-866-2467.

Pet Sitting

Franny's Pet Care and House Cleaning - I'm retired and have lots of time and love to give your pets and your home. I serve East Central Phoenix, and the Biltmore and Arcadia areas. I'm happy to provide references on request. Call for more info. 602-795-3149.

Furry Cherubs Pet Sitting Service - A professional pet care service in your home, covering the Metro Phoenix and Northeast Valley areas. Wendy, the sole owner, is an accredited petsitter who is insured/bonded and has been a proud member of Pet Sitters International since 2001. For further information, references, or to set up an interview please call 602-677-9155 or email furrycherubs@hotmail.com.

Pawjama Party Pet Sitting - Full service pet sitting in your home or ours. Kathy and Andy are bonded and insured and cannot wait to meet your fuzzy family member! Feel free to contact us by telephone at
602-448-8643 or via email at info@pawjamaparty.com. CHCoA Members receive a 10% discount on services.

Pet Waste Removal Services

Clean Paw Pooper Scooper - After just one visit your pet’s yard will smell inviting and look fantastic! We guarantee your satisfaction with every cleaning. Residential, 1-time cleanups and commercial service available. Contact Al at 623-385-9095 or cs@cleanpaw.com. Insured, Bonded & Reliable.

Lucky Dog Pooper Scooper Service - Servicing all parts of the valley, our fast affordable service will come to your yard and clean up after your beloved best friend. We'll take care of this messy and smelly chore for you - for a lot less than you think. REGISTERED AND INSURED Satisfaction Guaranteed! Visit us on-line or call 480-343-7117 for more details.

Photographers and Artists

Cartoons & Caricatures by Nancy Kartoon - Caricatures are the perfect gift for all festive occations - Birthdays, Anniversaries, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Work Parties, Employee of the Month, etc. Nancy also offers Custom Caricatures from photographs, Caricature Parties, and Camera Ready Artwork for T-shirts, websites and publications. Contact Nancy by telephone at 602-258-2140 or via email at funart@nancykartoon.com.

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"My Dog Ate It" home