DOG WALKING TIPS

Starting off on the right foot can help make taking a W-A-L-K a fun bonding experience for you and your dog.

Who is in control?

Many new dog owners need to be trained to be the alpha dog. When walking, your dog should be calmly walking at your side or slightly behind you with a slack leash. Select a collar, harness and leash based on you and your dog’s level of training.

Identification

Even if your dog has a micro-chip, every dog should have an ID tag on their collar. It is also a good idea to carry a photo of your dog with you to aid in recovery if your dog somehow loses you.

Oh Poop!

In addition to being great exercise for both of you, walking the dog is a great deal about poop. Bags used to pick up, contain and transport waste for disposal are essential. Poop bags are available in all sorts of styles including hand mitts, biodegradable, scented and bright colors. Built-in scoops and refillable dispensers that hook to the leash all help facilitate reducing your pet’s carbon footprint.

Heat

In the dog days of summer, when temperatures soar into the 80s and 90s, dog walking can be risky. Dogs sweat only through the pads of their feet and their tongues, so overheat faster than people and take longer to cool down. Overweight, seniors and short nose breeds are especially sensitive to heat. Hot asphalt and sidewalks can easily burn paw pads.

Thirsty?

An important item for dog owners to be equipped with when heading out for those longer walks, water bottles designed with a special bowl or portable collapsible water bowls can help quench Fido’s thirst and stay hydrated.

Light the Night

Don’t forget the importance of visibility when walking pets at night. Reflective collars, leashes and vests and bright strobes and lights that fasten onto collars and leashes are smart safety precautions.

Outerwear

Even during warm months, night temperatures can be chilly, and many dogs will appreciate a sweater to help retain body heat. Raincoats can help dogs enjoy the outdoors in inclement weather. As we head into fall and winter, jackets and parkas become even more important for a comfortable walk outdoors. Booties can protect sensitive paws from fertilizers, oil, gasoline, salt and harsh pavement. Soothing balms can help soothe and heal sore, cracked pads. Keep a pack of disposable Paw-Wipes handy at your door for a quick cleanup.

ANIMART’s knowledgeable staff can assist you with selecting the proper walking equipment and help coach you on dog walking manners.