Walking Tips

Originally Posted By: LiljahSince it is now getting nicer out, I been taking Shane on these nature tail walks, however, I have a few concerns I am hoping you all can help me with....

1. Shane received his Lyme disease shots, however, I am afraid he will pick up ticks/fleas or any other type of parasites and bring it home. What do you guys do to prevent this?

2. Finally, Shane for the first time discovered water, and he dove right in. However, I am scared to let him actually go all the way in because I don't know what kind of swimmer he is...how can test this. (note: I don't nor does anyone around me have a swimming pool to test this).

3. I am afraid to let Shane get too far away from me. He has good recall, but I still get very nervous to let him wander off (like a mother allowing a child to wander). I am afraid he is going to get into something or hurt himself to eat something he shouldn't. How do I overcome this?

Thanks everyone.

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1. Use a flea/tick preventative. I prefer Frontline Plus. You apply it once a month. I also treat my home home and porch once a year with a special spray that prevents flea and tick eggs from ever hatching, should one ever ride in on a dog and jump off.

2. I've never heard of a dog drowning simply b/c it swam in and could not swim out. However, I don't know that I'd let my dog swim in waters I was unsure about. He could get snagged on something, or inhale spores (some dogs in this state died of this last year). I would not let him swim in random ponds, unless he is wearing a harness and long line so you can control him staying near the side.

3. Check your local leash laws. Where I live it's illegal to walk a dog without a leash. All animals not on private property must be on a 6ft leash or shorter. If you are out in the country, you could attach a long "drag line", which is like a very long leash that the dog drags around. You can either hold the end, or drop it and if he starts wandering, quick grab it or step on it. You should also work on a good recall. Even though my dogs have to be leashed, we practice recalls every day.