Welcome to the latest episode of the Highwater Trek Co podcast! In today's episode, our hosts will discuss some common hazards one may encounter on an Ozarks trail in the springtime and year round. Join in as the conversation starts with water crossing safety, and continues as we discuss several critters that bite. Sam gives us the scoop on our slithery snake friends, and discusses tips to navigate water crossings safely. Katy serves the lowdown on the most disliked critter to be found in the Ozarks: Ticks. Though these creepers may strike fear into our hearts, Katy breaks down the life cycle of these "Velociraptors of the Ozarks" and provides information on how to keep the little buggers at bay. She also discusses the populations of bears that reside in the Ozarks, who are often unreasonably feared.  The hosts also consider other critters to be on the lookout for, and (after a few mentions of the traumatizing nature of Old Yeller) discuss how to keep your own pet healthy and safe from disease.  Follow us on: Instagram @highwatertrekco Facebook @highwatertrekco Send your biggest trail pet peeves, questions, comments, suggestions, stories, love letters, or hate mail to:  highwatertrekco@gmail.com Theme song "Ozark Stomp" by Peter J. Lehman. Give him a follow on Instagram: @peterjlehmanmusic Info from Episode: Missouri Share the Harvest Program National Snakebite Support Snakebite Recovery Position