One of the best things about being a dog owner is going on walkies — walking with your dog every day is great exercise for you and them and enhances your mood too.
But as dog owners, we should also remember our responsibilities to our pets and the other animals and people we meet when we’re out and about.
So in this article, we’re going to give you a heads-up to keep those tails wagging and ensure that everyone stays safe when you’re out with your doggo.
Keeping your pet safe
The hot weather here in Australia can be a problem for pets. On the hottest days, you should only walk dogs early in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.
Avoid walking your dog on hot surfaces like pavements, asphalt or sand. To test whether it’s safe for your dog, place the back of your hand on the surface for five seconds. If it feels too hot, then it’s definitely too hot for those sensitive paws!
Be vigilant around roads and built-up areas. Traffic noise may startle your doggo, so make sure they are on the lead when you are in busy places.
Never exercise your dog immediately before or after eating. It can lead to bloat, also known as GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a serious condition where the stomach fills with air and then twists.
Be careful around other dogs. They may not wish to interact with your pet and vice versa. The easiest way to create distance is to stand between them if you don’t think they will make friends.
Ensure your dog is microchipped to make it easier for you to be reunited if they wander off.
Keeping other animals and people safe
Keep your doggo on a lead unless you see signs that say your dog can go without one.
Know that some national state reserves and parks don’t allow dogs to protect the wildlife living there.
To help your dog learn not to pull on the lead, make a point of standing still when they do so. When they walk back to your side and the lead loosens, give them a couple of dog treats as a reward.
If you are in a space where you can let your dog off the lead, make sure they are within calling distance and that you can keep them under control.
Be sure to clean up after your dog. This means taking poo bags with you wherever you go and disposing of them in an appropriate place.
Be extra careful around kids. If a child comes up to your dog wanting to pet it, get them to ask first — it helps keep them safe when they encounter other dogs who may not enjoy being touched.
You will know if your dog can tolerate being touched by someone they don’t know…but keep a close eye on them and watch for any sign of them getting stressed.
Keeping yourself safe
Before you set off on your dog walk, do some gentle stretching to warm up your muscles and avoid strain.
Have everything you need on hand in your pockets or a waist bag — including poo bags, a dog treat bag, a well-charged phone, house keys, and water for you and your dog.
If you plan on going to an isolated area for your dog walk, make sure you’ve shared your location with someone at home.
And don’t forget the sunscreen, shades and hat if you’re walking on a sunny day.
The perfect companion to your daily walk!
Of course, there are lots of safety considerations when it comes to dog walking. But the last piece of advice we’re going to offer is to enjoy that special time with your furry friend!
Keep your phone in your pocket and take off those headphones — use your dog walk to spend some personal time with your pet, enjoying the scenery and meeting other walkers too.
And you can make their experience extra special by packing some Gully Road dog treats for them to enjoy — our natural, sustainable and preservative-free treats are the perfect companion to your daily walk!
Check out our complete range of natural dog food products in our online store to inspire you and your dog to live your best life!
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