Are Your Dog Walks Enjoyable and Safe?
Does your dog love a good walk? Walking with your dog is great way to exercise your dog and yourself at the same time while enjoying some good bonding time with your dog buddy. Seems like an easy task to walk your dog but there are things to consider before hitting the pavement to keep you both safe and the task pleasurable.
Safety first is a great motto even when walking your dog. Paying attention while you are walking with your pet is important. You should be aware of your surroundings to keep you both safe. It’s easy to get distracted by your phone, as it always there, but try to not use it unless necessary so you can stay aware of you dog and the surroundings on your path. Take the time to be aware of any potential distractions in your walking route as well. Be aware of inconsistencies in the pavement or path, any construction happening in the area, and are there people, cars, or animals in the area. Knowing what is happening around is very important and keeps your walk safe and enjoyable. You should maintain control of your dog’s leash and be aware of distractions which could cause your friend to bolt, startle, or take chase suddenly.
Pet equipment should also be safe and appropriate. Will your companion do better with a harness for walking or is a collar sufficient? The leash attached is also very important. Retractable leashes may seem great, but they can be a potential danger. If locking mechanism fails or glitches, you may not be able to control or stop your dog and this can lead to trouble quickly. This can allow your furry friend to get further ahead of you and where you may not be able to see potential issues and concerns. Or you may not be able to stop them before they blunder into obstacles or hazards ahead. These types of leashes are also more prone to snap or break and can cause some ugly rope burns or cuts. A safer option is a leash about 6 feet in length made of nylon or leather. You will have better control and keep your buddy close by to enjoy that walk better.
Other considerations when walking include being aware of the weather. If you dog needs a walk mid-day in our NC summer, it’s best to keep it short and have water available for you both. Or find a way a place to walk indoors if possible. Also, be sure the pavement will not burn their paws, walk on grassy or shady paths, and take breaks in the shade if necessary. Alternatives include to try walking earlier in morning or later in the evening. Or just keep it short then have some one-on-one play time in the air conditioning!
Try to enjoy the walks with your dog. Don’t think of it as chore but as time spent with your furry bestie. Let them sniff, take their time, and encourage good walking behaviors with small treats as appropriate. Dog lives and our time with them are short and this is a big deal for them to spend this time with you. It also becomes a great habit and routine, which dogs love. You both get some exercise and fresh air. We all know life is busy, try to focus on the positives and view this time from you dog’s perspective and not make it just a chore to be completed.
Of course, there are plenty of reasons you may need assistance with your dog walking responsibilities even when you do enjoy them. Peak City Puppy and Dog Walkers is at the ready and is willing to assist! The company is locally owned. Dog walkers are employees not contractors who are background checked, and there is always administrative staff available for assistance as needed. We love walking dogs and will help keep that routine in place when needed. And as a bonus, you will get pictures so you can know your dog is still having a great walk despite missing you. Check out website and reviews here https://peakcitypuppy.com/.
