It’s wonderful spending time walking with your dog. With the sun shining and the warm air on your skin, it can be extremely soothing. But sometimes, when you’re walking your dog, you don’t always feel that safe. There are definite dangers that can arise while you’re out and about with your dog. Here are some ways to stay safe no matter the situation.

Top 4 Ways To Keep Your Dog Safe When On A Walk

1. Always be aware of your surroundings and ready to act

This is the easiest and also the hardest step in keeping your dog safe on walks. The best thing you can do is use your senses. What do you see and hear? Do you have a gut feeling that something just isn’t right? Follow your instincts, because generally, you’re right. If you notice something that makes you feel uneasy, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Another good thing to have along on walks is an animal deterrent spray or pepper spray. Be very careful when using it and only use in an emergency when you feel like you have no other choice to keep you and your dog safe.

2. Use the proper equipment

Being prepared to keep your dog safe on walks is all about being well-equipped.

Have your dog on a leash that is no longer than six feet. If you feel that they pull too much then use a harness. Retractable leashes stretched across a sidewalk are also a dangerous tripping hazard so be careful when you chose to use these.

The light at dawn and dusk makes it the most difficult to see. Wear reflective clothing, and consider a reflective collar and/or leash for your dog, to make it easier for drivers to see you.

3. Use proper walking etiquette

Always walk on the left-hand side of the street, facing oncoming traffic. Of course, this is basic pedestrian safety, but it can be easy to forget. Use sidewalks whenever they are available. And always keep your dog on a leash. You never know what you might come across on your walks. Keep your dog on a leash so you have control if he tries to dart into traffic, chase a squirrel, or make a new friend.

4. Watch where their nose goes

Keep an eye out on where your dog is sniffing. There could be snakes, poisonous plants or other hazards in the bushes. Plus, you never know what people have thrown out of their car window or just dropped on the grass. Chicken bones or other items could be potentially deadly.

If you use a regular leash such as a four or six-foot lead you are more likely to keep your dog away from some potential danger on the ground.

We all love to take a nice stroll with our dogs, but none of us want it to end in a trip to the vet. That’s why it is important to follow a few simple safety tips to make sure every walk is a good walk.