Staying Safe When Out with Your Walking Buddy
Tips and Techniques to Keep Owners and Dogs Safe When Adventuring Outdoors

Often when we walk our dogs at this time of year, it is dark outside. Many times when we are walking we are alone with our children and dogs. Since you cannot predict the unpredictable, what should you do to avoid unnecessary dangers?

As a former police officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Canada, I have seen many people take unnecessary risks that could have resulted in unfortunate circumstances. I can share a few things I learned over the years while I was outdoors with my dogs and while I was working as a police officer.

Be Aware
What is in the environment where you are walking? Be aware of animals, gravel, cars, broken glass, or anything else that can hurt you or your dog. Be aware of strange people around, or not-so-strange people that watch or follow you. Awareness about your surroundings is imperative for your safety as well as for the safety of your dog. Be aware of what people are wearing, what they are driving, what they look like and what they say. Pay attention to their body language especially if the hair on your neck is standing up. This sixth sense — our safety mechanism — can tell you a lot. Lastly, be aware of your dog’s body language. Are their hackles up, are they growling, and are they keeping an eye on a certain person or place in the trees?

Stand Tall
While you are walking, be sure to stand tall, square your shoulders, and hold your chest high. Walk with a purpose and look around continuously. When we get scared, we give the appearance of folding in two and we slump over and round our shoulders. This makes us look weak and helpless. Walk your dogs with that same determination and alertness. Your physical presence alone, not size, can be your first line of deterrence for anything untoward.

Carry a Cell Phone
Always make sure you have your fully charged cell phone with you while you are walking in case of an emergency. Avoid walking and talking at the same time so you can be aware of what is going on around you.

Be Prepared
Ensure you are prepared for your walk with your dog. Always carry ID, and the phone number of your veterinarian in case of an emergency. Have extra poop bags, and a key for the car in case you lose your main set of keys. Carry water for you and your dog no matter what the temperature. Let someone know where you are walking. If you are walking and darkness is approaching, then carry a headlamp so your hands can be free to handle the leash or your dog.

Cold
Your dog loves to be with you whenever possible but in the Northwest, climates can be damp or cold, which makes walking outside a challenge. A dog like a Labrador Retriever is much better suited to cold climates than a smooth coated dog such as a Dalmatian. The Labrador’s thick coat (which is designed for hunting in the wet marshes) will allow them to keep warm and stay dry. Purchase an insulated coat designed to assist dogs that do not have thick coats to stay warmer during the colder months. Dog boots will also help to keep their paws protected from salt and other irritants on the frozen or wet ground. Always watch your dog’s ears, groin area, and any exposed skin for frostbite. If you are unsure of what to look for, talk to your veterinarian.

Now that the heat of the summer has passed, head out with your walking buddy for some long walks and remember to stay safe.

Terry Downs is the owner of Pink Dogs, offering lifestyle seminars, publications, and a network of other women with similar goals. Pink Dogs works to inspire, empower, and educate on how to stay safe when out with your dog. She lives in Kelowna, British Columbia and walks every day with her trio of Labrador Retrievers. Visit www.pinkdogs.ca to learn how to be healthy and safe with your dog.