Dog Safety: 10 Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe
Dog Safety: 10 Tips for Keeping your Dog from Getting Lost
Having a pet go missing is such a terrifying experience, so here are some tips for keeping your furry friend safe.
- Make sure your dog is spayed or neutered. This can somewhat reduce his desire to run off exploring.
- Have your dog microchipped, and make sure that the microchip company has all your up-to-date contact information. Microchipping is fast, painless, and affordable.
- Secure an ID tag to your dog’s collar with its name and your contact information on it. Also make sure his rabies tag is up-to-date.
- Use an LED or reflective collar so your dog can be seen at night.
- Ask your veterinarian to check that your dog’s collar and harness are fitted properly. Tip: Martingale collars help keep your dog comfortable while keeping him secure on his leash.
- Always keep your dog on a leash when outside your home. Even the best trained dogs can become frightened and run off.
- Avoid retractable leashes. They lack the control needed if your dog unexpectedly bolts. It’s much safer to use a leash made of sturdy material such as nylon or leather.
- Be sure all family members and any visitors know to shut doors and gates securely when entering/exiting your property.
- Dogs can get through surprisingly small spaces so periodically check your fence for gaps, rotting wood, or holes. During the winter, keep snow drifts away from the fence so dogs don’t have an opportunity to leap over them.
- Keep your dog restrained with a car harness or dog car seat (for smaller dogs) so he won’t get thrown from the car if you’re in an accident.
