If hiking with your pet pooch is a particular dream of yours, then the seventh Human and K9 Ultimate Challenge could be the event for you. Set to take place on Friday, January 31, the Ras Al Khaimah hike sees owners and pets take on the stunning Jebel Jais mountain. It is organised with pet and human safety in mind, with marshals, paramedics and veterinarians all on site. “Hiking with obstacles and checkpoints on the way with your [canine] companion is a challenge that stimulates your body and mind which enables you to strengthen the bond between your [canine] and loved ones ” said Hussain Darwish, founder and organising marshal of The Human and K9 Ultimate Challenge. Participants will set out with their pets on the moderately challenging trek in the scenic Hajar Mountains in the Northern Emirates. The challenge is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, including those new to hiking. Checkpoints will be set up at regular intervals to ensure the safety of participants and <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/take-on-the-human-and-k9-challenge-with-your-furry-friend-this-weekend-1.111072">past events </a>have taken around four hours to complete. And if you don't have a dog, fear not. Those who would like to participate in the challenge and do not own a dog can adopt or foster one from UAE dog charity <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/family/adopt-don-t-shop-the-cats-and-dogs-that-need-homes-in-the-uae-1.766179">K9 Friends </a>one day before the event. When the challenge is finished, a barbecue will be set up at base camp, where there will also be kiosks selling outdoor equipment and dog food. Registration costs Dh260 for one person with one dog; Dh475 for a team of two people and a maximum of two dogs; Dh1,025 for a team of five people with a maximum of five dogs. Registrations close on Sunday, January 19. <em>Friday, January 31; timing TBC; from Dh260 per person; Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah; 04 427 3727; <a href="http://www.hk9.ae/">www.hk9.ae</a></em>
