What changed in March 2020?
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We limit social gatherings
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We do not go to the cinema
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We give up mass events
What remained unchanged for dog owners?
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Walks with four-legged friends
Among the activities aimed at reducing the risk of virus spread, there is one that no owner can eliminate. Walking with a four-legged friend. It cannot be given up, not only because of the dog's physiological needs but also because it helps satisfy its behavioral needs. Without daily walks and outdoor activities, you have no chance of providing your dog with the proper amount of exercise. A walk cannot be replaced by staying in a backyard garden, as every dog needs to explore new areas, sniff, and receive stimuli from a varied environment. Therefore, it is not worth giving up on walking trips with your dog. However, you can introduce some rules during walks that will reduce the risk of contracting the Covid-19 virus.
Rules for walks during the pandemic
1. Contact with other dogs and owners
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avoid petting,
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keep your distance -
take disinfectant with you
A regular part of most walks is contact between dogs in parks, dog runs, or sidewalks. Often during dogs' introductions and play, owners start conversations. This is an element of the walk that should currently be avoided, especially if you choose not to wear a protective mask. At this time, there is no scientific evidence confirming that the virus can be transmitted on dogs' fur, so contact between animals themselves should not pose a threat. However, it is worth avoiding situations where another owner approaches your dog to pet it. You should also try not to touch other animals, and if you do, disinfect or wash your hands thoroughly. Do not approach other people walking dogs without a clear reason. A safe distance is about 2-3 meters.
2. Choose less crowded areas
For a walk, it is best to choose less crowded places. Instead of going to a park or dog run, it is better to head to less frequented areas. This is a good opportunity to discover new routes or even start an adventure with car trips over longer distances. It will be a safer alternative for both the owner and the pet. Benefits? The dog will discover new places, and unfamiliar scents will force it to work intensively with its nose, engaging both body and mind. What a dog can easily do at home may become a challenge in an unfamiliar environment.
3. Hygiene
If you decide to walk in a more crowded place, remember to observe all possible precautions. Keep your distance, and if that is impossible, wear a mask. Remember to wear it properly—covering your mouth and nose. Avoid touching objects, and if necessary, disinfect your hands. Be cautious when cleaning up after your dog. Trash bins are touched by many people and can harbor many microorganisms. You do not need to disinfect or wash your dog's toys or leash if no one else has touched them.
4. Assertiveness on walks with your dog
You have the right to point out to other dog owners if they approach you and your pet too insistently or without your consent. You can do this at any time, regardless of the pandemic. Everyone should always ask for permission if they want to pet a stranger's dog or initiate contact between two dogs.
5. Change the time of walks
Besides changing the route, you can also choose a different time. Try to observe at what times you minimize the likelihood of meeting other dogs and try to go out with your pet then. Introduce changes gradually; you can start by shifting the morning walk by 15-20 minutes so as not to disrupt your daily rhythm too abruptly.
6. Do not leave your dog unattended
Avoid leaving your dog unattended. You then have no control over what will happen and may be forced into contact with a stranger, for example, if your pet wanders off and someone wants to pet it. This does not mean you should avoid any contact with people or only walk your dog on a leash (unless it has not yet mastered recall, in which case it should not run loose). However, maintain social distance to minimize risk.
Fresh air exercise is also beneficial for you
It is understandable that everyone fears virus infection. Nevertheless, you should not give up walking your dog. It is an important part of the day. Eliminating it will certainly negatively affect the animal's well-being. Every dog, regardless of breed, age, or sex, needs a daily walk. It cannot be replaced by running even in the largest garden.
By using common sense and making small changes to your daily routine, you can meet this need. At a time when we spend more time at home due to restrictions, a walk can also benefit the owner. It is an excellent opportunity for physical activity and a chance to get fresh air. Do not give up something that will benefit both your dog and you.
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