Does your canine pal jump for joy when you reach for the leash? Those daily walks are crucial for sanitary reasons, but they are also important for Fido’s mental and physical well-being. Since January is Walk Your Dog Month, this is a great time to talk about taking your dog out. Here, a Marietta, GA vet discusses walking your dog.
Choose The Right Gear
Leashes and collars are definitely not one-size fits all. Some pooches—such as small dogs and brachycephalic pups, like pugs—should wear harnesses instead of collars. Others, like greyhounds, need special collars that won’t slip over their heads. Make sure Fido’s collar is sturdy, and isn’t too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers between your pet’s collar and his neck. As for leashes, choose a sturdy one that won’t break. Retractable leashes can be great, but they can also be dangerous if the mechanisms jam. If you get one, get a high-quality one that locks.
Take Time For Training
Teach Fido simple commands like Sit, Stay, Come, and Heel. This will not only help you keep your pet safer, it will also make walking him much more enjoyable.
Hacks
Does your dog walk you, rather than it being the other way around? Every time Fido pulls on the leash, immediately change direction. Sooner or later, he’ll get the hint! We also recommend dedicating a specific jacket to taking Fido out. Keep the pockets stuffed with dog-walking necessities, such as spare keys, waste baggies, a flashlight, and a portable cell phone charger.
Safety First!
Always put safety first. When walking at night, use reflective gear and stick to safe, well-lit areas. Don’t let your canine companion explore areas that could be housing dangerous animals, such as snakes or gators. If you are walking on the side of a road, keep your pooch to the outside, and walk on the left sidewalk, facing oncoming traffic.
Change It Up
If you take your pet down the same exact route every day, he may get bored with the routine. Go somewhere new with your canine buddy! Visit a dog park, or explore a new trail with him. This will offer Fido a change of scenery, which is great for him mentally.
Please contact us if we can ever be of assistance. As your Marietta, GA pet clinic, we are here to help!
