The evening hours are a great time to walk your dog. During the summertime, temperatures are cooler and the sidewalks and roadways are not burning hot. There is usually less traffic at night than during the busier daytime hours.
Unfortunately, there are some risks that exist with nighttime walks. The lack of visibility is an important one. The good news is that there are companies that manufacture products that greatly reduce the risk of not being seen.
Several companies sell reflective vests made for dogs. These vests illuminate your dog when car headlights shine on your pet. Reflective vests are available in many pet stores as well as online shopping sites.
If you don’t want to use a reflective vest on your dog, you should consider buying a reflective collar and leash so that motorists can see the dog. These are available in a variety of sizes, styles and colors. It is important to insure that the collar fits tightly enough so that the dog cannot slip it over its head and run off on its own. It is very important to make sure your dog’s identification information is tightly secured to the collar. Should the dog escape in the dark, the information will help someone who finds him or her to return your pet safely home.
In addition, dog owners can choose from a variety of lights that can be worn on the dog, themselves or both. Some lights shine red. Others flash. Some are just bright white. The color is not all that important. Lights can minimize risk as long as they are bright enough to be seen by motorists.
It a good idea for you to carry a flashlight and a cell phone when walking your dog at night. The flashlight can be used to alert drivers to you and your dog. A cell phone could mean the difference between life and death. Should someone choose to harass you and your dog, a cell phone will allow you to call for help.
Airplane pilots file flight plans. Boat captains file float plans. Dog owners should think about at least mentioning nighttime walking plan with another family member or a friend or neighbor. This is a simple procedure. Simply call one of these folks and tell them you are taking off with the dog. Let them know where you and Rover will be walking and what time you plan to return. If you do this, you will gain the confidence of knowing that someone knows where you are and to look for you if you don’t return home in a timely manner.
If you have a sudden change of plans while walking the dog, use that cell phone and call the person you filed your nighttime walking plan with.
When walking with a dog, keep the dog on the gutter side of your body so that he or she is not in the pathway of motorists. It is a good idea to walk facing traffic. This will allow you to see what is coming towards you and it will enable you to get out of the way of vehicles if necessary.
It is also important to outfit you, the walker, with safety equipment to help insure the safety of the dog. Consider buying shoes that have reflective lights or tape on them. Use reflective tape on your clothing so that motorists can see you.
Remember, you and the dog are a team. The health and welfare of both of you is important. It only takes an few extra seconds to put on your safety gear.
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