PETLIFE-Fall 2021

Hey, Airdrie Junior Dog Walkers

We see you walking with your puppies and rescues, helping your parents and being responsible. Its refreshing to see such good handlers in the making. Here are some tips!

Your parents are smart to not send you out alone with your dog if they have high drive, reactivity or physically outpower you. This sets you both up to fail. Use a well fitted front clip harness and head halter combo (even a muzzle) and desensitize them so they like wearing it. Encourage your family to invest in a trainer with positive, choice-based methods and together be a part of creating solutions to walk safely. When leash walking locally, even the most experienced dog handlers find themselves in challenging predicaments at the best of times, so be prepared!

Let’s all agree to keep a safe distance from our neighbors walking their own dogs. Space not only reinforces your dog’s good choices, but it also makes them feel safe. Dogs work for pay! Pay=Treats. Bring lots with you! Find creative ways to get your dog to look at you and practice the check-in. Use a squeaker toy as well as drop and hide treats on the ground under a bush to find as fun enrichment.

Be confident. Stay close to home and practice being a good neighbor. Stick to spaces and paths that you can see everything around you. Avoid getting forced into a tight spot with another dog. Don’t be embarrassed to speak up for your dog’s needs. Stop and change your direction. Walk off the path to stand behind a bush or mailbox. Choose to keep your dog calm with some yummy treats so they can make the right decision. You are creating foundations with every walk. Remember to keep it fun with your friend!