As autumn creeps in and the evenings get dark earlier, it is important to understand how to keep your dogs safe. As we approach the colder months, letting your pets out during daylight hours isn’t always possible for all pet parents. Therefore, extra precautions should be taken to ensure your dogs stay safe on their outdoor adventures. Keep reading for our safety suggestions…
- Wear Reflective Clothing - Being seen in the dark is crucial for you and your pet’s safety. Reflective and light clothing, worn by both you and your four-legged friend, gives motorists a better chance of seeing you in the dark and taking caution when passing. This is especially important if there is poor visibility on your walking route. If your pet causes a fuss wearing coats, don’t worry, reflective and light-up collars can be a suitable alternative for both dogs and cats. It’s important for our animal companions to stay adventurous throughout the year and reflective clothing or a light-up collar can help ensure they are safe when exploring the great outdoors.
- Use a Torch - Do you often walk on a poorly lit route? If so, take a torch on your autumn walks with your dog! Carrying a torch provides visibility of your path and surroundings while also alerting motorists and cyclists to your presence. This helps you keep an eye on your dog and stay safe during nighttime walks. Many dogs love roaming free and playing fetch with their human friends on a walk, and who are we to ruin their fun? Bring a torch so you can keep track of your pet while they wander freely; darker hour walks can still be stimulating and fun!
- Walk on well-lit routes - As the cold, dark months approach, your usual walking routes may become increasingly dangerous. Woodlands and fields are less suitable for evening autumn walks with your dog, so opt for well-lit paths to keep you and your pet safe on walks. We suggest familiarising your dog with these safer routes at the start of autumn. This can help them become accustomed to their surroundings and ensure safety and enjoyment on your autumn walks.
- Use a Whistle - Carry a whistle on your darker walks to help you to communicate with your dog. If you have an adventurous pup who likes to explore far and wide, whistle training can be extremely useful during the autumn months. A dog whistle will not disturb other humans or wildlife in your area but will get your dog’s attention and call them back to you when they are out of view. A whistle can carry further than your voice, allowing your hound to explore while still hearing your call to return. Remember, if you live in a very poorly lit area, both a torch and whistle should be carried to ensure your dog’s safety.
As we approach the later months of the year, walks with your dog don’t have to be dark and gloomy. By taking the proper precautions, you can ensure your pets’ safety while making your autumn outings to be fun and stimulating for your furry friends.