Pet Safety Blog

Dogs love to go for walks in the park or anywhere their pet parent is willing to take them, but if your dog is large and starts to walk you, rather than you walk them, there is a problem.  They can pull very hard and will not allow the ease of taking a stroll together.  There are different types and sizes of pet safety harnesses that are suitable for just about any activity.  A pet safety harness should be used to fasten your dog to the seat belt in your vehicle (some vehicles do not accommodate this feature), and will protect them from getting hurt if the brakes are suddenly applied to avoid having an accident.  If you are a runner and take your dog with you, a pet safety harness is ideal.  It will work as well for your dog, while riding a bicycle.  The pet safety harness is becoming very popular and takes away the stress of trying to calm your dog down while walking.  They want to rule, forgetting you are in control, not them.  It may take a few times for your dog to become use to their harness, but once they do, you both will be happy.

In addition to this type of pet safety harness, a special one is available to support a senior dog that has had surgery of some kind, or is losing their mobility in walking due to arthritis or hip dysplasia.  As dogs become a senior, they will start having pain in their legs, joints, and hips.  If you have had your dog for a long time, you will begin to notice the difference of them trying to get up and down, or start to have a slight limp.  This is the time to take them to your veterinarian and find out what the problem is before it gets too far-gone and nothing can be done to help them.  Trying to walk up and down stairs will become a very big problem, as is with getting in and out of your vehicle, I know from experience.  Special harnesses are available just for that purpose to help them maneuver easier with less pain.  The special harness is designed not to bunch up like a towel and will brace your dog.  Place the harness under their groin (can also be placed under the front legs depending on the problem) and lifting up will support their weight to move a little more freely.   Try not to place the harness under your dog’s mid-section, their abdominal organs are sensitive.  Your dog needs to use their own legs to walk with your support.  Be Happy!