Sun’s out, paws out… but don’t let your dog take the lead

Whether it’s a quick jaunt around the block or a leisurely bush walk, dog owners are being asked to paws for thought when having fun in the sun with their four-legged friends.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council Animal Services Officer Betty Hall’s advice is simple, “If you can’t get it right at home, don’t go out the gate!”

She is referring to her number one golden rule of making sure your dog is calm before you set off for a walk, and before it interacts with other dogs.

“If your dog is in the right state of mind, it’s a learning state of mind, as opposed to being anxious or super excited. If you can get your dog into a calmer state of mind before your walk, it’s much more enjoyable for you both,” says Betty.

“Before you open the door or the gate, wait until your dog has settled down. And if they pull on the lead or get over-excited during the walk, go to one side and stand still for a few minutes and ask your dog to wait. It takes a bit of patience, but it’s one of those foundational learning tools that can make a huge difference.”

Creating personal space – between people and other dogs – is also high on Betty’s list of advice.

“Don’t put your dog in a situation they don’t know how to handle. It can be very intimidating for a dog when another dog runs up to them. Be aware and give other dogs space. Make a gap and wait for the dogs to sit quietly. If they are calm, they will interact better,” says Betty.

“Be respectful when you’re walking your dog on the beach. Don’t let them run too far ahead. If you see another dog coming, call your dog back and put them on the lead.”

Other important things to consider during hotter weather are avoiding taking your dog for a walk during the heat of the day, making sure your dog has access to water during your walk and not leaving your dog in a hot vehicle.

“A lot of people don’t realise that hot sand and concrete can burn a dog’s paws. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when things have cooled off,” says Betty.

“If you’re taking your dog with you in the car to run errands, be aware that dogs can go downhill quickly if they overheat. Leaving the windows of your car down on a hot day may not be enough – it’s one thing running in to grab a bottle of milk from the dairy, but when it’s more than that, it’s too long.”

Western Bay’s Animal Services Team will be sharing more ‘top tips’ at Council’s final Wander Dogs walk for the summer, at Anzac Bay, Waihī Beach, on Saturday 2 March.

The ‘power-up’ talk before the walk sets off will give dog owners the chance to ask questions and tap into the team’s wealth of knowledge about dogs and their behaviour.

Training tips will also be shared at Council’s Doggy Day Out on Saturday 16 March, along with agility demonstrations.

“One of the things people struggle with consistently is just walking their dog nicely. We wanted to give back by helping people learn the skills to walk their dog confidently and comfortably, and it’s been really well received,” says Betty.

“Remember, your kuri rely on you for a safe and enjoyable experience. Please don’t let your dogs down.”

Learn more of Betty’s dog training tips here.

Check out dog walking parks and reserves in the Western Bay here.