Canine friends enjoy a romp in a secure, private dog run. Photo: Melissa Garcia Logan
Hundreds of northern NJ dog owners leashed up their pets today to enjoy the spate of good weather. As the northern climes awaken to spring, it's a good time to remember a few things to keep your dog safe.
Check your fence. If you have a fenced yard, now is the time to check your fence for loose or rotted boards, areas where the soil has eroded, and weak spots where your dog could get out or other animals can get in. Check and fix BEFORE you let your dog loose in your yard and do not leave your dog outside unsupervised.
Check your property or be wary on regular walking routes for hazards. As the snow melts away, new hazards will become apparent, especially in areas recently damaged by storms. Weak branches, fallen branches, holes, and broken glass or asphalt, plus poisonous mushrooms and other mold and fungi are all hazards to avoid.
Be aware of other dogs and animals. As the weather turns, wild animals awaken, creating a danger to pets who may compete with these animals for space or resources. Additionally, other pets will now be roaming the neighborhood. Always leash your dog, be prepared to change direction to avoid confrontations with animals before they are in contact range. Avoid walking your dog during dusk or dawn when wild animals are likely to be foraging for food and visibility is at its lowest.
Assess your dog's gear. Check collars and leashes for patterns of wear and replace any equipment that is worn or torn. Periodically replace equipment to avoid sudden equipment failure.
Brush up on training. Work on your dog's recall and leave it commands, and work with your dog among distractions. Being able to call your dog away from potential danger could save his life. If your dog has problems with reactivity, now is a good time to consult with a trainer or behaviorist.
Follow laws related to responsible pet ownership. Do not allow your dog to roam your property unsupervised. Make sure your dog is confined to your property and is unable to get loose or harass passersby. Be quite certain there is no way for your dog to escape your property—animal control may charge fines for retrieving your loose dog, or your dog may be injured fighting with other animals or contending with cars and traffic.
Territorial and reactive dogs should be supervised closely when roaming fenced property and should be monitored on leash when off fenced property. If your dog approaches other dogs with hostile body language, you're asking for trouble. It is not appropriate to expect other dog owners, particularly law abiding ones, to change their dog walking routes to accommodate your dog.
It is each individual pet owner's responsibility to appropriately confine or contain his pets at all time. Accidents happen but they are often preventable with diligence and maintenance. Reactive dogs should not be left outside alone unsupervised under any circumstances. Resourceful animals may break in to your property to fight with your dog, even if your dog is unable or unwilling to leave your property. Monitor and intervene before disaster strikes.
Local resources:
Canis Minor Newport
www.canisminor.net
31 River Drive South
Jersey City, NJ 07310
201-626-5545
newport@canisminor.net
Maxwell & Molly's Closet
www.maxwellandmollys.com
218 Spring Street
Newton, NJ 07860-2012
(973) 300-0101
Montclair Feed and Pet Supply
www.montclairfeed.com
191 Glenridge Ave.
Montclair NJ 07042
973-746-4799
Quibu's Paws
www.quibuspaws.com
802 Pennington street
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
See the sidebar for recommended local dog trainers.
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All text in this article is copyrighted and the sole possession of Melissa Garcia Logan, unless otherwise indicated. Available for reprint and/or publishing only with written permission from author. Contact Melissa Garcia Logan with your comments, suggestions, questions, and ideas.
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