It’s happened to all of us! You’re out walking your dog, she’s on the lead, the sun is shining, everyone’s having a great time. Then a dog comes running towards you, owners chasing after it, lead in hand, shouting “Don’t worry he’s friendly!” and suddenly the walk is not so enjoyable.
Lead etiquette is a must when owning dogs and knowing when to have them off lead is part of that. Having your dog on lead when out and about not only keeps your dog safe but also those around you. Just because your dog is friendly doesn’t mean all dogs are. Some dogs require their own space, they might be anxious, aggressive or recovering from another dog attack. Young children and people afraid of dogs also shouldn’t have to be exposed to lose dogs just because “they are friendly”. No matter the reason the last thing they want is an uncontrolled dog running up to say hello. There are designated off leash areas where it is allowed to let your dog run free. However, this shouldn’t mean free for all. Having good recall is a must if you decide to let your dog lose.
A lot of owners only take their dogs to assigned onlead areas so they know their dogs don’t have to deal with off lead dogs. These dogs may be recovering from previous attacks or maybe dog reactive. Its not fair on these owners when dogs are left to run lose defeating the purpose of the area.
Often at the vets we get owners bringing in their dogs off leash with the reason “she’s friendly” or “she won’t go anywhere”, or they are on retractable leads, full extension, able to go up to any dog or cat carrier they see. The vet is a very stressful place for some animals and their behavior can be very guarded and different to when out at a park, they might be there because they are sick or sore, or immuno-compromised. When at the vet dogs should always be kept on a leash and under control for everyone’s safety and to help make everyone’s experience at the vet a little bit easier.
All dogs need exercise and taking them for a walk or a run is a great way to do this. But always think before letting them off lead, is it allowed where we are? Will they come when I call? Is their farm stock or wildlife around?
Amy Stafford
Vet Nurse