Does your dog bounce up from a dead sleep when you go near his leash? Fido certainly does love his walks! Actually, those daily strolls are very good for your canine pal! Here, in honor of Walk Your Dog Day, which is coming up February 22nd, a local San Leandro, CA vet talks about walking your dog.
Benefits of Walking
Although bathroom breaks are often the main reason people take their dogs out, walks are good for Fido in many other ways as well. They help him stay active, which is great for him physically. Walking can also burn off your four-legged buddy’s excess energy. This can help with many behavioral issues. After a long walk, your pooch will be more interested in napping than in digging in your garden for buried treasure! Walking also offers our canine friends beneficial mental stimulation.
Safety
Always keep Fido’s safety first and foremost. Make sure that your furry buddy is microchipped, current on his vaccines and parasite control products, and wearing proper ID tags. In hot weather, always bring water along for your pooch, and take care not to let him overheat. When you are walking on the side of a road, keep your pet to the outside, as he will be harder for drivers to stop. At night, use reflective gear and stick to well-lit, familiar paths.
Change of Scenery
Fido may get a bit bored taking the same old walking route every day. Take your pup somewhere new now and then, like a park or trail. Remember to follow park rules, and always pick up after your furry pal.
Foxtail Grass
Foxtail grass can be very dangerous for dogs! The seeds have sharp barbs, which can lodge themselves in Fido’s skin, and then work their way inside his body. Keep your canine companion away from foxtail grass, and always check your pooch thoroughly when you get home.
Paw Care
Fido’s paw pads are actually quite sensitive. Your four-legged buddy can get painful burns and blisters on his feet by walking or running on hot surfaces. In summer, keep your canine friend on soft ground as much as possible. You can also put paw balm on your furry companion’s paws to help protect them.
Please contact us here at your local San Leandro, CA animal hospital for all your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!
