Keeping your dog safe in parks
Walking your pet pooch is a rewarding pastime for both dog and owner. You both get to spend some quality time together, get some fresh air and to do some exercise. To keep things fresh for both you and your pet, it’s common for lots of dog owners to vary their route, and take in a park if there is one nearby. There are, however, a couple of things that you need to be aware of if taking your pet to a public place such as a park.
First and foremost, you must be careful to make sure that your dog is in a calm, submissive frame of mind when you take him out. Some dogs find the stimulation of being in a park almost too much; there are lots of interesting smells for them to follow, ducks and squirrels to chase, and other people and dogs to meet. We’ve all seen someone walking a dog that is straining at its leash in an effort to run off and explore. By keeping your dog calm, not only will it be less likely to slip its leash and run away, but it will also behave itself around people and other dogs.
Bodies of water, such as ponds, can also be a hazard. If your dog is a pup, it’s best not to let him anywhere near a pond or lake – there is too much of a chance that he will not be strong enough to swim to safety if he gets into trouble in even the shallowest water. If you have a pond at home, it’s also advisable to make sure it is covered whenever your pet is out playing in your garden.
Last but not least, make sure that you scoop any poop that he does – it won’t keep your dog out of trouble, but it will ensure that you don’t get fined for fouling a footpath.
