“I’m going to take Oakley for his w-a-l-k,” my husband says.

The word must be spelled out or there will be no peace until that collar and leash are on. With the summer weather creating more opportunities for promenades with our pooches, here are 10 tips to help make your walks together safer and more enjoyable: 

• Use the right equipment.  While a leash and collar may seem convenient, they can cause your dog to pull and put harmful pressure on the neck. A well-fitting harness is more comfortable for your pup and gives you better control. 
• Attach an ID tag to your dog’s collar. Make sure your dog’s collar includes a tag with their name, your name and your current phone number. 
• Avoid walking during extreme temperatures. Not only does your dog risk being a victim of heat stroke, but the hot pavement can burn paws. If the sidewalk is too hot to touch, it’s definitely too hot for your dog.
• Carry a collapsible water bowl and extra water. Keeping your pooch hydrated during these warmer days is as essential to your pet’s health as it is to yours.
• Watch the forecast. Many dogs enjoy a light drizzle, but thunder, lightning and downpours can cause panic and strain their leash or try to bolt. 
• Respect your neighbor’s yard. Lawn chemicals and pesticides are often applied during the spring and summer months and are not always marked. Plus, it’s good manners to steer clear. 
• Watch for open windows and doors. An unexpected encounter with a dog that runs out of its owner’s unsecured front door or rolled-down truck window can quickly turn traumatic.
• Steer clear of dilapidated fences. Even a fence can fail—rotting wood or a gap in chain link may not stop a charging dog just trying to defend its yard and home. 
• Allow your dog to set the pace and sniff the summer smells. However, keep an eye out for hazards like bones, broken glass, candy (especially xylitol-sweetened—which is highly toxic to your pet) and other dangers hiding in the grass or bushes. 
• Always, always, always pick up your dog’s poo and dispose of it properly.

Willy loved his w-a-l-k-s. As his dog walker, this vivacious (and dashingly handsome) Aussie mix and I racked up a lot of miles together as we enjoyed traversing the Shooks Run neighborhood.

Although my sweet friend crossed the Rainbow Bridge on May 7th, his pawprints remain all over my heart. 

In honor of Willy, go have a nice walk with your own dog, and enjoy every step!

Send your questions to Marti in care of the BEACON or email her directly at: [email protected]