How to Walk/Run Safely with Your Dog in the Summer

With summertime fast approaching for many Americans, now is the time for pondering exercise routines and healthy outdoor activities. And what better fitness activity for dog lovers to engage in than a friendly neighborhood stroll or jog with their faithful canine companion? But before pounding the pavement with your pup, there are a few safety tips you should bear in mind:

1. Always Keep your Dog on a Leash or Harness

There are several obvious reasons for this tip. For starters, the last thing you want is to wind up chasing your dog around your neighborhood or down a busy street where he/she could potentially be hit by a car. Remember that safety is priority number one. However, utilizing a leash will also help you maintain control of your dog and to keep him/her by your side at all times. Hopefully, this will encourage your dog to walk, jog or run beside you at the same speed at which you are walking, jogging or running.

If you're worried about straining your dog's neck when pulling on the leash, you should invest in a dog harness. This will allow you to rein in your dog without turning his/her head, which could potentially result in their turning into the path of an oncoming or passing vehicle. Visit your local Wal-Mart or pet supply store and inquire about a harness that will work for your dog's size or visit www.petco.com and www.ezydog.com.

2. Keep Bottled Water on your Person at all Times

When it comes to summertime exercise, hydration is priority number one, both for you and your dog. For this reason, you should always drink plenty of water before, during and after your walk or run. Allow your dog to do the same. If you notice your dog exhibiting signs of extreme fatigue, overheating and/or excessive panting, take a moment to stop and allow your dog to cool off. Utilize your water squirt bottle and wet your dog's mouth. Be certain your dog is actually drinking the water, not merely tonguing it.

3. Start with a Slow Walk before Building to a Jog and Run

Don't overstrain yourself or your dog. Spend a two to three weeks of regular exercise time maintaining a brisk walking pace around your neighborhood or on nearby nature trails (which are better for your dog's paws). Gradually work your dog up to a jogging pace and an eventual running pace over course of a few weeks. Otherwise, you run the risk of straining your dog's muscles before he/she is ready to handle a more intense exercise regimen.

4. Obey All Area Traffic Laws and Local Road Regulations

Whether you're jogging through your neighborhood or down the side of a four-lane highway, remember to operate within all local traffic laws. Neither you nor your dog is invincible or immune to potential accidents. Every year, countless pedestrians are severely injured or killed by motorists. Look both ways before crossing streets and always maintain control of your dog's leash. Remember that he/she is likely to be excited by passing vehicles and may try to step out into traffic or the path of an oncoming car. Keep a tight grip on the leash and always know the length of freedom your dog has.

When walking, jogging or running at night, be sure to outfit your dog with a reflective and/or light-up collar. You can purchase these at your local pet supply store or here at www.hotdogcollars.com or www.keepdoggiesafe.com.

So this summer, maintain a heightened awareness of safety when exercising with your dog. Remember to pay attention to your dog's healthiness and always remember your safety tips when walking and jogging outdoors. Be sure to make this summer one of the best summer you and your dog have ever had!