Dog Walking Safety Tips & Tools for Old Saybrook & Beyond

Walking a dog along the Connecticut Shoreline offers stunning views and a really enjoyable experience, but ensuring safety for both pet and pet parent (or dog walker) is critical, even in secure towns like Old Saybrook. While crime rates are low in our area, precautions against strays, wild animals, and crime should always be considered. For a deeper dive, check out our previous post about dog safety practices for dog-friendly outings in the Connecticut Shoreline or this post about a safety issue I encountered last year in East Lyme. Let’s discuss dog walking safety tips & tools for Old Saybrook and beyond.

Harnesses and Standard Leashes

For optimal control and safety, it is essential to use proper harnesses and standard leashes.  A secure harness reduces stress on the dog’s neck and discourages slipping out, while a standard leash (usually 6 feet) offers better management compared to retractable leads, which can be unpredictable and unsafe in high-traffic or natural areas. Using the right harnesses and leashes protect local wildlife and ensure compliance with state park rules. From my understanding, Connecticut state parks require leashes shorter than 7 feet, which helps prevent unwelcome interactions with wildlife or strangers.

Don’t forget your dog should be wearing a collar with ID tags and should be microchipped for optimum safety and protection if lost. And, always wear reflective gear at night.

Avoiding Distractions

Staying attentive on a dog walk is vital to everyone’s safety. Many dog walking incidents occur because owners are distracted, especially by smartphones. Limiting mobile device use, such as listening to podcasts with just one headphone, ensures awareness of surroundings and allows for quicker response to approaching animals, oncoming traffic, or sudden changes in environment.

Animal Deterrent Spray/Pepper Spray

Carrying animal deterrent spray, such as citronella-based SprayShield® and similar products, provides a humane and effective way to fend off aggressive dogs, stray animals, wildlife, and other potential dangers encountered on walks. These sprays are designed to startle and distract without causing lasting harm, offering a temporary window to move to safety. With a spray range of around 10–15 feet and a compact, pocket-friendly design, these products are trusted tools for dog walkers, trainers, and animal control officers, proving effective not only on dogs but also on raccoons, squirrels, and snakes.

While pepper spray may be more effective against human attackers, SprayShield® may also create space between you and an aggressor in a pinch. In Connecticut, pepper spray is legal to purchase, possess, and use for self-defense purposes, but there are some restrictions. For starters, you have to be 18 and over to purchase and possess pepper spray, leaving teens unprotected, which is where SprayShield® may be a good idea. Just keep in mind that young users should be trained to store and use SprayShield® correctly to keep everyone, pets included, safe.

Noise Makers

Another option for safety is a noise maker like a Birdie device, which is “like having a fire alarm in your pocket.” When you pull the pin out of the device, it flashes and beeps very loud, getting the attention of people around you. While the sound may set off your dog, it can be very useful to call the attention of neighbors when you are unable to manage a situation alone.

Similarly, air horns make loud noises that can call attention to a situation, deter a coyote or stray dog, etc.

Altering Routes for Personal Safety

Walking the same route daily increases visibility and predictability, which can make dog parents potential targets for petty crime or stalking. Changing walking routes and times adds an extra layer of protection, making routines less predictable to outsiders. This simple precaution is an effective deterrent and has the added benefits of keeping walks interesting for your dog(s.)

Dog Walking Safety Tips & Tools for Old Saybrook & Beyond