Now that the weather is cooling off, it’s a great time to get out and go on more walks with your faithful four-legged friends. In Honor of National Walk Your Dog Week (Oct 4-11), we have a few tips to make sure you have a safe and pleasant walk with your dog. Looking for new places to hike and now sure what’s dog friendly? Check out BringFido.com.
#1 – Use the right equipment
Make sure your dog’s harness or collar is in good-shape, with nothing about to break. Same goes for the leash. A walk can quickly be ruined if something breaks. Also, make sure you are using the right type of equipment. If your dog pulls, you may consider a front clasp harness (and training of course!) Amazon.com
#2 – Bring treats
It’s always a good idea to bring treats with you for training. It can also help you if you encounter a loose dog you are unsure of. Before the dog reaches you, throw the treats at him – most will stop to eat the treats, giving you time to get away. Carry them in a treat pouch can keep your hands free. Amazon.com
#3 – Plan your route
If you have a dog that is sensitive to new things or other dogs, sounds, etc., plan your route accordingly. Maybe walk in the early morning when no one else is moving yet, or avoid the busy main streets and opt for the quieter neighborhoods. Choosing a park without a dog park can lessen the chance of dog encounters.
#4 – Watch for dangerous items on the ground
Many of us are walking in urban settings nowadays and this means dirty sidewalks. And while we don’t think about it much because we wear shoes, most dogs don’t. This means they can get cut on glass, poked by dirty needles, and walk through whatever else is on the sidewalk (the other day I stepped in beer during a walk!). So, be mindful of what’s on the street while walking for your dog’s protection.
#5 – Carry an extra leash
It’s always a good idea to have an extra leash with you, just in case. I like to bring a slip lead, so in a pinch I have something that works as a collar too. I prefer the adjustable, martingale-type that do not act like a choke collar. GunDogSupply.com
#6 – Bring Water
It’s better to have your dog drink your water from home, or bottled, than out of a creek or lake, which is full of bacteria and even pollution. Even if you are going on a short walk, bring it along – your dog may get dehydrated quicker than you think.
#7 – Ask before approaching people or dogs
Nothing ruins a walk quicker than a bad encounter with another dog or person. This should be common courtesy! Just because your dog is friendly, doesn’t mean their dog is! If you have the dog that does not want to greet, be sure to let people know as soon as possible. Remember, not everyone knows what a yellow ribbon means, so it’s best to just let them know before they get too close.
