With daylight savings time once again upon us, we’ll be walking dogs in the dark much more often.
The sun may be snoozing, but our four-legged pals still want to frolic and play as much as they do in the summer.
We’re dispensing some tips and tricks for staying safe when walking your dog at night, plus some fun gadgets for night-time frolicking that you and Fido are sure to enjoy!
Legend
Tip #1: Be Visible
Everyone in your pedestrian party should be wearing something reflective. As the pet parent, wear a bright reflective vest and consider purchasing one for your dog. Check your neighborhood pet store for leash lights, blinking collars, and reflective harnesses – all of these are smart choices to protect the ones you love.
Tip #2: Tag Fido!
Dogs can’t talk. This means, if one of the furry loves of your life runs for the hills on the tail of a mischievous cat, they can’t tell anyone where they belong. Having proper pet identification means no brokenhearted dogs or dog owners! You should never leave home without detailed ID tags for your dog.
Tip #3: Follow the Light
Although not always possible, when it is, opt for the more well-lit paths. Not only is it safer to be within hearing range of other humans, but dark trails accommodate animals that can be aggressive and dangerous.
Tip #4: Hold the Phone!
If you are out at night to spend time with that four-legged friend, then spend time with him or her and keep your cell phone in your pocket. Besides, you can’t pay attention to your dog, traffic, other pedestrians and traffic signs if you’re fiddling with your phone. However, emergencies do occur and having cell phones can save lives, so don’t leave home without it.
Tip #5: Turn Off the Tunes
You should always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night! Our sense of hearing alerts us to motorists behind us; bikers and joggers; other dogs and animals; and all sorts of other potential dangers. Remember…it’s not just your safety, but your furry friend’s too!
Tip #6: A Trained Dog is a Safe Dog!
Taking a walk, whether in the day or at night, should be an enjoyable experience for both of you. If you allow your dog to pull you all around the neighborhood, you are not making it uncomfortable for you, but dangerous for both of you. Training a dog to be well-behaved walker lessens the likelihood that he or she will pull you both into oncoming traffic, run after a squirrel, or challenge another dog.
