March 30th is Take A Walk In The Park Day! We know that many of our canine patients will be more than happy to celebrate this one. Going to parks may very well be one of Fido’s favorite activities. It’s also good for him. The sunlight, exercise, change of scenery, and stimulation are all great for Man’s Best Friend! Dogs also love being able to run and play with their buddies. Just be sure to put your pup’s safety first. A Roanoke, VA vet offers some dog park safety tips in this article.
Precautions
Before heading to the park, Fido should be microchipped and wearing ID tags. Make sure that your canine pal’s microchip is up to date! It’s also important for your pooch to be current on his parasite control and vaccinations. Dog parks can be hotbeds for heartworms, fleas, and other hazards.
Age
If your furry buddy is still a puppy, check with your vet before bringing him to the park. If the little guy hasn’t been completely vaccinated yet, he could be at risk of contracting diseases or parasites. And, while hanging out with other dogs is great for socialization, being around too many dogs at once could be overwhelming or even traumatic.
What To Bring
While the only ‘must have’ to bring along would be water, it’s a good idea to keep a backpack for Fido in the car, so you always have his doggy necessities with you. These include things like treats, a water bottle, a towel, a spare leash, and a pet first-aid kit. It’s also a good idea to keep copies of your pup’s registration and medical records in there.
Playmates
Unfortunately, there’s no way to guarantee that all of Fido’s potential playmates are going to be nice and well-behaved. Keep an eye out for dogs that are acting aggressive. If you notice any unruly pooches, take your furry friend for a walk instead, and go back another time. That said, parks can be a great spot for meeting up with friends or family members who have polite dogs of their own.
Cleanup
Always pick up after your canine companion! While many parks do have waste baggies set out, it’s a good idea to have some on you.
Is your dog due for an exam? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA veterinary clinic, for all your pet’s veterinary care needs.
