Intro:
Your furry friend benefits from going for a walk three to four times a day, 15 minutes each time. If you live in a multi-unit complex and don’t have access to a backyard, your dog needs outdoor exercise even more.
During the summer months, it’s easy to take your canine out for a stroll. The days are long, and the weather is warm. Therefore, it’s possible to go for a walk at 8 pm safely. In most areas, there is still natural light.
When the days become shorter, you need to take some additional precautions. Don’t assume that vehicles can see you or your hound. Plus, neighborhoods change at night. Thus, you should become aware of the activities that take place nearby after hours.
We offer seven tips on how to stay safe while walking your dog at night.
1. Gear Up
No one is saying that you need to gear up like you’re going to combat when walking your canine at night. However, you should acquire reflective accessories.
In 2022, you’ll find several reflective items on the market. Manufacturers produce them for joggers, cyclists, and walkers.
Reflective items to pick from include:
- Vests
- Leg bands
- Belts
- Headlamps
The goal is to ensure others can spot you crossing at major intersections and driveways.
If you live in an area where it becomes sketchy at night, consider coupling your reflective gear with residential security guards provided by Special Security Services. As crime spikes across the United States, it has spilled over into residential areas too.
2. Gear Up Your Dog Too
In addition to reflective gear for humans, pick up gear for your dog too. On the market, you’ll find reflective leashes, collars, and vests.
Drivers can’t see your dog clearly at night unless they spot you first. If your dog walks ahead or behind you, it puts them in danger. Therefore, give vehicles a chance to spot them too.
Add reflective gear to your dog’s accessories to stay safe while walking at night.
3. Take a Familiar Route
When the weather is nice and the sun is out, it’s nice to explore a new route. At night, consider taking a familiar one.
New routes mean new surprises. It’s better to run into surprises when others are out and about too. At night, it gets trickier to react to them.
Familiar routes allow you to meet your neighbors. Getting to know them, even by sight, keeps you safe at night. Knowing your neighbors keeps the whole area safe for residents too.
4. Walk with Another Dog Owner
Even though walking your dog is a great time to bond, consider walking with another dog owner and their furry friend at night for safety reasons.
Canines benefit from having friends too. Thus, they can entertain each other during the walk while you and your human companion have a chat.
There is truth to the safety in numbers adage.
5. Bring Your Smartphone
Most people don’t leave home without their smartphones. When you take your furry pal on a walk, take the phone with you too.
In case of an emergency, you can call a family member or 911. Sometimes pretending to take a call is enough to ward off an individual with nefarious intentions.
6. Avoid Wearing Headphones
Any time you walk on the street, remain aware of your surroundings. This includes using your listening skills.
Enjoy the time with your dog and avoid wearing headphones. At night, it’s tough to see clearly. If you also obstruct your ears, you lose your ability to hear oncoming traffic and other dangers.
7. Wear Comfortable Shoes
A walk is a physical activity that requires the proper attire. To stay safe, wear clothes that allow you to run, sprint, and jump.
If your dog spots a squirrel or other critter, the temptation to chase it and catch it runs high. Sometimes hounds pull so hard on the leash that the owner lets go.
If your dog makes a run for it, you must be ready to keep up, especially at night. It’s easier to run in sneakers than heels or flip-flops.
Conclusion
Most dog owners look forward to walking their pooch at least once a day. It’s a few minutes that you get to spend with each other without interruptions. To keep the walk pleasant, practice street smarts.
