We love our dogs. We want to bring them everywhere. But should we?
My wife and I were at Seattle’s Pride festivities last weekend and couldn’t help but notice all of the stressed-out dogs. I grant you, a few were very happy to be there and didn’t seem to mind the loud noises, threading their way through a sea of rainbow-clad people. Even the 7 foot tall Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence didn’t phase them. However, this was maybe 5% or less of the dogs that were there. I saw at least two small-breed puppies being “socialized.” Terrorized was more like it. They were quaking and their owners at least had the sense to stop making them walk on their own through the crowd of giants humans.
Don’t get me wrong - I missed my dogs and wanted to bring them, too. But it would have been for me, not for them.
If you’re thinking of bringing your dog to a festival or street fair, please consider the following first. If your dog is willing and able, go for it. Otherwise, give her a Kong as a consolation prize and head out to party. Exception: Fireworks near your house may mean you should stay home with your dog. Ask yourself the following before taking your dog anywhere in the summer:
- Will your dog have water and sufficient shade?
- Will your dog have a place to lie down? (For some, cement’s okay, but others can’t stand it!)
- Will your dog need a snack?
- Is your dog sensitive to noises or crowds? Shaking, panting, darting eyes, and weight balanced backwards, as if to run away, are good signs to watch out for.
- Is your dog okay with other dogs? Expect other people at the festival to allow their dog to run right up to yours.
- Is your dog okay with children? Ditto about the children.
- Is your dog your first concern - are you willing to bring your dog home right away if it’s not the right environment?
It’s a good idea to bring some dog treats, a water bottle, and of course, a leash. If your dog doesn’t walk well in crowds, use a harness or head collar to help you have more control. See the article on Loose Leash Walking for some suggestions on techniques and harnesses. They don’t have to just wear a regular collar and I rarely recommend the prong collar.
If your dog will be well provided for, go ahead and bring them, just be ready to leave, if need be. We’re supposed to be their best friends, after all.
Written by Grisha Stewart, Ahimsa Dog Training, SeattleLiked This Article? Please Bookmark It!
StumbleUpon
 RSS feed
|
[