How to Prevent Pet Risks When Walking Your Dog
On March 30, commemorate Take a Walk in the Park Day with your canine companion, but avoid any dangers to ensure a wonderful day. When walking your pet, watch out for the following problems.
#1: Other dogs
If one dog is reactive and manages to escape their collar, running into another dog might be disastrous. Friendly off-leash dogs can also be dangerous since your pet may perceive them as a threat and rush up to greet them. Watch your dog’s body language and keep an eye out for other dogs to make sure they stay calm and relaxed around them. Avoid parks if you can during popular times to prevent a potential altercation among a large group.
#2: Traffic
Keep a close lookout for traffic when heading to a park, including approaching cars, bicycles, and pedestrians. To avoid mishaps, make sure your pet remains by your side. Unlocked retractable or long leashes are dangerous for pets because they can be used to run into traffic, clothesline cyclists, or wrap-around onlookers. If your dog lunges at a squirrel, the leash may also snap.
#3: Parasites
Parks are perfect habitats for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites because they are teeming with potential victims. By giving your pet preventives all year long and regularly examining from nose to tail for hidden bugs when you get home, you can protect them from both internal and external parasites.
#4: Wildlife
Your dog will probably find animal burrows, nests, and resting spots as they follow their nose around the park. While most wild animals will flee when people and pets approach them, others may become hostile in order to defend their young, food supply, or habitat. Also, it is advisable to avoid disturbing wild animals because they frequently serve as carriers for parasites and diseases.
If you and your pet like to spend time outside, make sure they receive routine preventive treatment to keep them free from parasites and infectious diseases. Call our staff to make an appointment for your pet’s wellness check.