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Dog Walking Hacks

February 15 2018

February 22nd is Walk Your Dog Day! Those daily strolls are important for sanitary reasons, but they also benefit Fido in many other ways, by providing him with exercise, stimulation, a change of scenery, and a chance to spend some quality time with his human buddies. Regular walks will be good for you, too! We do have a few tips that can make taking Fido out a bit easier. A McHenry, IL vet discusses some dog walking hacks in this article.

Carabiner

Clip a carabiner onto the end of your furry pal’s leash. That way, if you want to stop and chat or make a phone call, you can easily secure Fido to a tree or post. (Note: never leave your canine companion unattended, even just for a few minutes.)

Pulling

Does Fido have a habit of jerking on his leash? When your dog pulls on the leash, immediately stop walking, and then turn around and go the other way. Do this every time your pooch pulls. Training, as you can imagine, can get a little tiresome, but it will be well worth it in the end.

Jacket

Designate a specific jacket for taking Fido out. Keep the pockets stuffed with all of the things you may need, such as waste baggies, treats, a flashlight, spare keys, and a phone charger. Now you’ll only have to grab one thing on your way out the door!

Waste Baggie Stash

Remember to pick up after your pup! Keep a stash of waste baggies around your house and/or car. That way, if you run out, you won’t have to go back in.

Change of Scenery

Do you like taking your pup to doggy parks, or checking out new trails with him? Keep a bag for Fido in your car. Include waste baggies, paper copies of his vaccination records, treats, a first aid kit, and a doggy water bottle with an attached bowl. You’ll always be ready to hop into the car and go!

Paw Wipes

Fido has a special way of leaving paw prints on our hearts. He also leaves them on our floors! Keep a paw-wiping mat, pet wipes, or a washcloth near the door, and teach your canine buddy that he’ll get a treat after his feet are clean.

Please contact us, your McHenry, IL pet hospital, for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!