Take a Walk with Your Dog: 10 Tips

Cincinnati Springs Are Perfect for Walking Your Dog

These 10 dog-walking safety tips will help you be aware while enjoying the great outdoors with your pet. Staying active is healthy for both people and animals– and you can feel great about helping your dog live their best life.

At Grady Veterinary Hospital, we sadly see emergency cases that result from accidents on walks. We want to help you and your pet avoid trouble, while still having a great time.

1. Check with your vet to make sure your dog is healthy: Especially if you’re starting a new exercise routine with your dog, you’ll want to make sure your dog is healthy enough for the length of walk you’re hoping to take. Regular wellness visits are also important for the overall health of your dog.
2. In warm weather, take plenty of water for your dog: Dogs can dehydrate quickly in the heat, so bring a portable water bowl for your dog. Here’s one great option.
3. Avoid hot cement or pavement: Your dog’s paw pads are sensitive, like your skin. Cement and pavement absorb the sunlight and rapidly heat up, even in mild weather. These surfaces can burn and tear a dog’s paw pads.
4. Let your dog lead the way: Don’t pull or force your dog to continue if they are tired and need a break. If you see excessive panting or the desire to lie down, it’s time to cut the walk short.
5. For night walks, use reflective clothing for yourself and your dog. And carry a flashlight.
6. Watch for other animals or debris on the ground. Dogs are curious! And they often aren’t careful about toxins or threats. Watch the path ahead for things your dog shouldn’t get into and steer clear.
7. Choose the best leash, harness or gentle leader for your pet. Take into account your dog’s personality and breed for the safest, most comfortable solution. Strong dogs may do best with a gentle leader. Here’s one option to consider.
8. Be aware of your surroundings: Always obey traffic safety laws and watch for traffic lights, stop signs, crosswalks, and driving cars.
9. Don’t assume other dogs are friendly: Some dogs are extremely protective over their owners, so other dogs may view that as aggression. Ask before you approach other people or dogs.
10. Always clean up after your pet! Along with being the courteous thing to do, cleaning up your dog’s stool protects the health of all animals. Toxins and parasites can spread through stool.

Following these simple tips will help you and your dog enjoy a safe and fun walk!