It’s hard to get into the spirit of spring while trudging around in galoshes. Add the news of impending winter storms and we’re staying home. As temperatures rise and days get longer, local dog lovers are ready for a dog-friendly spring in the CT Shoreline.
PREPARING FOR DOG-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
When the time comes, properly planning an outing is just as important as venturing out. Things to consider when visiting a local landmark or taking a day trip with your dog include the following:
- Verify that your dog is registered and vaccinated according to local law, both in the CT Shoreline and wherever you’re headed
- Make sure your dog is up-to-date on heartworm preventative and flea and tick repellents, especially if you’re headed somewhere wooded, wild, or where they will be exposed to other animals
- Check your dog’s collar for rabies and identification tags. Dogs should always wear a comfortably-fitting collar that displays these tags in case they are lost or involved in an incident. Collars should be worn snugly, only allowing 1-2 fingers between the dog’s skin and the collar.
- Grab up a harness that will keep your dog from pulling and gives you control over them in crowds. A harness is a much safer option than connecting a leash to a collar, which can easily loosen and slip off.
- Pack supplies including a portable water bowl, a few gallons of drinking water, lots of poop bags, and a meal or two depending on how long you plan to be gone. Even for day trips, it’s smart to bring along some of your dog’s food in case you are delayed coming home.
- Look into your dog’s chip information to make sure it’s registered to your current phone number and address. All too often, the contact information registered to a pet’s chip is never updated, which can significantly delay a lost pet’s return if their veterinarian’s office is closed when they go missing or over a long weekend
- Consider packing a dog-friendly first aid kit.
DOG-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND OLD SAYBROOK
The best way to decide what to do with your pets is to ask fellow pet lovers for tips. It’s also smart to take notice while you’re out and about and see other dogs enjoying a day out. It’s easy to assume that certain places are not dog-friendly until we see a dog in our midst.
Don’t forget to use many of the online pet-friendly resources when planning your next outing. One of our favorite sites/apps is BringFido. BringFido connects pet owners around the world with pet-friendly places, including parks, trails, restaurants, shops, and events.
AT HOME WITH SHORELINE HAPPY PAWS
Shoreline Happy Paws is based in Old Saybrook and serving surrounding areas. We have been providing dog walking, pet sitting, and peace of mind in the CT Shoreline since 2010. Our mission is to help you give your pets the lives they deserve. If you decide to venture out this spring without your pets, our team will care for them in the comfort of your home.
To learn more about Shoreline Happy Paws, contact us via our online form, call 860-964-0464, or email info@cthappypaws.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
