Dogs provide companionship, love, and security to their owners. And when they’re not lounging around the house or going for walks, many dog owners like to take their furry friend outdoors for a good game of fetch or some fresh air. But before you head out into the great unknown with your pup, it’s important to make sure they are as safe as can be. This article will look at a few ways to keep your dog safe outdoors.
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Fencing Your Yard
If there’s one thing you can do to make sure your beloved canine stays put, it’s fencing in your yard. There are many different kinds of fences that work well for keeping dogs inside the perimeter of your property. Most commonly, people choose an electric fence with a wireless transmitter. These kinds of fences send out a vibration that a dog will feel when approaching the boundary. Some fences even have a beep function for added peace of mind. There are also fencing options that you can bury in your yard that work much like underground electronic containment systems. You can even combine buried fencing with an above ground fence to keep your dog safe and secure without having to spend too much money.
Keeping Your Dog On Leash
One of the best ways to keep your dog safe while you’re walking around outside is by keeping him on a leash. These days, many leashes are designed to keep dogs under control even if they try to pull or run away. There are also retractable leashes that allow more freedom for your dog, but only within the limits of the leash. These leashes are especially great for people who like to hike or take long walks outdoors because they’re not as restrictive as traditional leashes. Keeping your dog on a leash outside is also important if there are other dogs or people around that you don’t know. Keeping him tethered will ensure that he can’t run up to another dog or get in the way of people out on their daily routines.
Microchipping Your Dog
Keeping your dog on a leash is very important, but it only works when you’re in close enough proximity to hold onto it. If you let your dog off their leash outside in an area where there are many other dogs and people, he could get spooked and run away before you can catch him. This can be traumatizing for your pup, not to mention dangerous if he gets near a road or another hazardous situation. And while some dogs can find their way back home after getting lost, not all of them will. Microchips are becoming more popular for dog owners who let their furry friends wander freely outside because they help you get your dog back when he goes missing. All you have to do is put your dog’s information into the pet recovery service that corresponds with the chip, and if your dog ever runs away or gets lost, anyone can scan him to get contact information for you.
Be Aware Of Dangerous Substances
Just like how your dog shouldn’t eat chocolate, he also shouldn’t munch on random plants and flowers that could be poisonous. It’s a good idea to do research and find out what kinds of plants and flowers you should keep off-limits for your dog. Some people think it’s safe to let their dogs eat dandelions, but they’ve been proven to be unsafe. If your dog eats too many of them, it could make him very sick and even cause problems like tremors and liver damage. Many pet owners use a book like the ASPCA “Compendium of Poisonous and Injurious Plants” to keep their dogs safe and stop them from eating plants that could be harmful.
Be Aware Of Insects And Other Critters
Just like there are lots of dangerous substances outdoors for your pup, there are also insects and small critters that can harm your dog if he tries to eat them. Mosquitos are the biggest danger because they carry diseases that can make your friend very sick or even kill him. Other creatures like bees can sting your dog, causing pain and making him feel panicked while increasing the risk of other health problems. Some dogs are also afraid of loud critters like crickets, so being aware of your surroundings is very important when you’re outside with your pet.
Give Them A Dog House
While you shouldn’t just let your dog out in the backyard and never let them in again, it is a good idea to give him a dog house he can go to when he wants to get away from the elements. It doesn’t always have to be an enclosed space, any place where he can feel dry and safe and away from the wind and rain will do. You can build a simple dog house for your pup, or you can purchase one that’s already been made. Some people choose to buy more complex houses since they have better insulation, but these houses are usually very expensive, so most people opt for the simpler version.
Conclusion
Keeping your dog safe outdoors is important, especially if you like to go on long walks or hikes. Keeping your dog leashed will keep them next to you at all times and not near any potentially dangerous substances, insects, or creatures that could injure them. Also, make sure your dog has a safe place to go indoors when they feel scared or exposed. By keeping your dog safe outside, you’ll be sure to prevent injuries and keep your friend healthy for many years to come!
