It's a sunny, beautiful day and you're ready to ramble into the countryside. There's no reason not to go and no reason not to take Fido with you.

Do be aware that while you know the sidewalks around your home, there are increased risks in rugged, unfamiliar areas.

Louise Louis of www.ToyBreeds.com offers a few tips to help keep Fido safe.

Don't let him play with sticks

Some dogs love them but they can splinter and damage his mouth. Bring a hard rubber Kong toy or ball for him to retrieve.

Have a first aid kit in the car or your fanny pack

It needed be elaborate - a wrap-type bandage, tape, ointment, Swiss Army knife, tweezers and a ruler in case you need a splint.

Carry a cell phone or at least change for a pay phone

Carry some drinking water for Fido

Don't rely on a pond, stream or lake. Most are polluted and algae can poison dogs.

Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back

Avoid walking along paths with gravel or small rocks These can cut paws and cause falls.

Have something you can use to muzzle him if necessary A scarf or leash can do in a pinch. Even Lassie may bite if hurt and frightened.

Avoid taking him out in the hottest part of the day Dogs can't sweat and heatstroke is a real possibility in hot weather.

Never leave an injured dog to seek help

He may panic and take off. Use a jacket to make a sling and carry him with you.

Watch out for livestock

Most won't bother a dog and owner but a cow with calves may think she's protecting her offspring by attacking the dog. Especially avoid bulls or pastures where there's just one bovine there. Horses can be tricky - best to avoid them altogether.

To safely cross a field with livestock,put Fido on a leash and walk quietly and gently around the perimeter of the field.

Respect other people's property

Farmers may not like finding dog doo so clean up after Fido just as you do in the city.

Protect your dog from fleas and ticks

Treat him with Frontline Plus before you take him into the wilds.

If you ignored the above and he gets a tick, try to remove it as soon as possible. Easiest way is to cover the tick with petroleum jelly (Vaseline) and leave it for a minute or so. Then, twist the tick off. Do not pull which could leave part of tick in Fido and cause an infection.

Consider your dog's age and general health in deciding where and how long to go for a walk

You wouldn't expect your elderly grandmother to walk six miles, and you shouldn't expect your older dog to do it either.

Fido will only cope with what he's used to. Use some common sense, and you'll both have a great time.