Seniors and dogs
DOG WALKING ETIQUETTE Dog safety includes keeping not only your own dog safe, but also the people and other dogs you encounter. You are your dog’s advocate, so don’t hesitate to speak up if someone’s actions might endanger him.
Dogs offer many benefits to senior citizens in the right circumstances. They provide companionship, and can help motivate them to exercise. But according to Jill, if a senior is becoming at all frail, it’s much safer for her to have a dog she can easily manage. Without foolproof training, a large breed dog can drag his “mom” over to check out any dog or human that catches his eye. It goes without saying that if a handler isn’t able to hold a dog back, the risk of a bite incident increases.
Here are some walking scenarios: If one dog is on a leash and the other isn’t… Don’t let your dog approach. Even if both are friendly, it’s an unequal meeting and not fair to the on-lead dog. If both dogs are on-leash… If you know your dog is okay with other dogs, ask permission from the other dog’s owner before approaching. Keep in mind that leashes add extra tension to any meeting, so approach with caution. If both dogs are off-leash... Your dog shouldn’t be off-leash unless his recall is excellent. Have him wait patiently while you ask the other owner’s permission for him to approach, as with the above scenario. Remember — some dogs don’t want their personal space invaded any more than some people do, so never assume a dog won’t bite!
86 86
CANADIAN CANADIANDOGS DOGSANNUAL ANNUAL2020 2020
Dogs and delivery persons
Online shopping is great, and while booming sales keep the postal service and couriers busy, it also means your dog may come face-toface with strangers in his territory. The U.S. Postal Service says its carriers are incurring more bites than ever, and has joined a National Dog Bite Prevention Week coalition to remind the public that “any dog can bite”. Likewise, Canada Post has long been calling for dog owners to take more care controlling their pets. Fortunately, as a dog parent, you can easily manage this issue. Simply secure your dog in a separate room before opening the door to delivery people. Even friendly dogs may bite if they feel threatened by unknown intruders. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, never leave him unsupervised. If the mailman arrives when your dog is playing in the front yard, trouble could ensue.