We all love our dogs. We call them “man’s best friend” for a reason, right? But do you ever wonder if you’re doing everything you can to keep your four legged fellow safe while you’re out and about? So many of us enjoy sharing an active lifestyle with our dogs. Your PetPartners family wants to make sure you have the information you need to do it safely.
Do you like to jog with your dog?
- Leash train your dog. Even the best behaved dogs give into their instincts every now and then and next to the road, where most of us jog, is not the place you want to have that happen. Play it safe and smart by keeping your pet on a leash.
- Remember your pooches’ pads. They aren't wearing shoes and the surface of sidewalks and streets can be hot in the summer so you should walk in the morning or evening when the temperatures aren’t at their highest. Remember to follow our winter pet safety tips during cold weather - streets and sidewalks can be cold and covered in de-icers that are toxic to animals. Wash and dry their feet to remove any residue.
- Know what level of activity your dog is ready for. All breeds are different. Some are better equipped for long distance jogging while others are built for shorter distances.
- Don’t forget, your dog needs to be conditioned just like you do. Gradually build up the distance you are hoping to cover with your dog, don’t just run out of the gate for a marathon.
Are you planning a hike with your four-legged fur baby?
- Using a leash is always highly advised, even when hiking, but if you are interested in allowing Rover to roam free, first make sure the area allows off-leash dogs. You also want to make sure your dog responds quickly to your commands in the event he decides to take off after a newfound forest friend.
- You never know what you might encounter when you’re out enjoying nature. Make sure your pet’s vaccines are up to date and your vet deems your dog is healthy enough for hiking during his annual wellness visit. Pet insurance can help reimburse for preventative care and wellness visits!
- Make sure you bring enough fresh water for you AND your pooch. Don’t forget the bowl. They make a ton of travel friendly, collapsible water bowls for this very purpose. Cupping your hands together just doesn't work as well as you would hope… I know, because I've tried.
Does your dog love to make a splash?
- Just like kids, dogs should never swim unsupervised. Be sure to take the time to teach your dog to swim before giving him the opportunity to leap into water!
- Try to keep your water loving tail wagger from drinking the water. Water in pools often contains chemicals not meant for consumption. Lakes, ponds, and puddles can contain parasites and can make your dog sick.
- Always rinse your pup after a swim to remove any dirt, salt water or chemicals.
Keep Your Pup Healthy
The best way to enjoy an acitve lifestyle with your dog, is to keep him in top shape. Annual wellness visits are a great way to ensure your dog is fit and meeting his nutitional needs. Consider enrolling in pet insurance so that you're covered in the event that your adventures go sour and your pup ends up sick or injured. PetPartners offers our accident and illness base plan so you can choose the best treatment to get your pup back on his feet and out enjoying nature with you! Get a quote today.
