{"id":235,"date":"2016-05-02T16:04:32","date_gmt":"2016-05-02T20:04:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/?p=235"},"modified":"2024-04-03T12:10:54","modified_gmt":"2024-04-03T19:10:54","slug":"walking-dog-off-leash-really-safe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/walking-dog-off-leash-really-safe\/","title":{"rendered":"Walking Your Dog Off Leash: Is it Really Safe?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"walkingFor most dog owners, there\u2019s nothing more exhilarating than watching your dog bound across a park or meadow. That excitement is enough to convince many owners that off leash is the way to go. <\/span><\/p>\n

For dogs who have been trained, off leash walking, running, or hiking is a great option and has many advantages. Unfortunately, the rest of the world might not be so cooperative.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Risks of Walking Your Dog Off Leash<\/b><\/h3>\n

While the spring weather may compel you to get outside with your four-legged friend, there are several factors to consider before ditching the leash.<\/span><\/p>\n

Wildlife <\/b>\u2013 Keep in mind that nature is home to many species, some of which pose a threat to your fur friend. Off leash romps can result in a snake bite or dangerous encounter with a sick animal, such as a rabid skunk. Keeping your dog leashed minimizes these encounters by limiting movement and keeping your pet within eyesight. Vaccinations and <\/span>parasite prevention<\/span><\/a> are a must!<\/span><\/p>\n

Untrained or aggressive dogs <\/b>\u2013 Encountering other potentially aggressive animals is another risk of walking your dog off leash. Just because your pet is well-behaved doesn\u2019t mean other owners have been as responsible as you. <\/span><\/p>\n

Poisonous plants and toxins <\/b>\u2013 Whenever your dog is free to roam, there\u2019s an increased risk of ingesting a poisonous plant or other dangerous substance. This includes products such as antifreeze and other <\/span>household toxins<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Parasites and bacteria <\/b>\u2013 E. coli, giardia, salmonella, and leptospirosis often lurk in infected water, soil, and decaying matter. Unfortunately, all of these can attract the attention of curious canines.<\/span><\/p>\n

Hunting season <\/b>\u2013 Off leash dogs are at an increased risk for accidental shootings, along with serious injuries sustained by traps, baits, and poisons. Be vigilant during hunting season and around well-known hunting areas.<\/span><\/p>\n

People <\/b>\u2013 Some people aren\u2019t enthusiastic about dogs (shocking, we know). Perhaps they\u2019re allergic or are simply afraid of canines. For whatever reason, someone could respond to a joyful greeting from your off-the-leash pet in a negative way.<\/span><\/p>\n

Safety Tips for Off Leash Walking <\/b><\/h3>\n

As you can see, there are many risks to wandering the world off leash. What can you do to mitigate some of these hazards?<\/span><\/p>\n

While it\u2019s not possible to eliminate all dangers, here are some effective tips to keep your wandering woof safe:<\/span><\/p>\n