As pet owners, we have a responsibility to take care of our pets. But if we want to take our pet for a walk in the neighborhood or to play in the park, we also have a responsibility to the public. Not everyone appreciates our pets as much as we do. So in order for both ourselves and our pets to enjoy the social experience, there are a few points we need to remember.

 Use a Leash. Unless you are in a designated off-leash area, always keep your pet on a leash. If you are around a lot of people, keep the pet’s leash short. The extendable leashes are great when there are few people, but can be cumbersome in crowds. If you are walking your dog on the extendable leash, reign the dog in when passing by other people. Some people are frightened of or strongly dislike dogs and may act defensively in response when a dog approaches them. Also, know your dog’s behavior. Avoid those things that you know your dog reacts negatively to whether it be children, other pets, or even noise. Adults generally know not to approach a dog without asking you first, but children may not. If you are not sure how your dog will behave around people or children, be especially attentive and prepared to pull your dog away from the situation. Even if you and your pet are in an off-leash area, always monitor your dog’s behavior. If you see your dog jumping on people or being a bully to other dogs, put your dog on a leash.  

Control Your Pet. Controlling your dog while in public is very important. If you have a difficult time controlling a dog that struggles against the leash, they could pull away and end up running into the street. Or your pet may chase another dog or jump on some unsuspecting adult or child. A dog that is difficult to control may need more training before going in public. To be able to control your dog in public you need to know how to control them at home. If you are not familiar with how to train your dog, take them to obedience school. The teachers of those classes do not train your dog for you, rather they teach you how to understand and train your pet yourself.

Avoid Public Buildings. Do not take your dog into public buildings unless specifically allowed. This includes public park restrooms. Many buildings will have signs specifically prohibiting pets, but not having a sign does not automatically mean that your pet is allowed inside. Pet owners need to remember that many people are allergic to dogs. Taking your pet into an enclosed building could cause severe allergic reactions in people even after your pet has gone.

Do Not Leave Your Dog Unattended. Do not leave your dog unattended in a public place, even if they are tied up or left in the car. Not only could this be considered illegal in some cities, but it could also be dangerous. The temperature on the inside of the car can get much hotter than the temperature outside. If your pet is tied up outside, they could get loose and inadvertently run into the street while trying to find you. Your pet could also be frightened without you there to protect them and may try to bite someone. And whether your pet is inside the car or tied up, someone who does not like animals could be cruel to your pet and even hurt them. If your dog is friendly and approachable, someone could steal them.

Pick Up After Your Pet. Another important thing for pet owners to remember is to pick up after the pet. This is a very easy thing to do. Plastic grocery bags are great for picking up your pet’s little messes. Simply put your hand in the bag, pick up the mess, then turn the bag inside out over the mess. Tie it off and discard it in the nearest trash can. Your neighbors will appreciate it. People playing in parks will be grateful as well.

Practice pet etiquette every time you take your dog in public. Keep your dog on a leash and keep them under control. Don’t take your pet into places where they don’t belong and never leave your pet unattended. Be sure to pick up after your pet. These practices not only help in making a public experience pleasant for everyone, but they keep your pet safe as well.