Festivals, farmer's markets, parades, picnics, fireworks...the summer is filled with many opportunities to be out and about with your dog. But just because it's a pet friendly environment doesn't mean it's right for every dog! If you have a new addition to your family, explore smaller venues first. A pet friendly store or a weekly farmer's market is a better opportunity to see how they behave in public than the 4th of July parade 

How do you know if you should bring your dog along? Ask yourself these questions:  

  • Is my dog happy to see people, even ones they don't know?
  • Are they comfortable around other dogs?
  • Do they stay under control in new situations?
  • Do loud noises scare them?

If not, the safest place for them may be at home. You know your dog better than they know themselves. They may tell you that they HAVE to be by your side, but sometimes we have to tell our kids no for their own good. However, if your dog simply enjoys life and is the perfect party animal, enjoy! Here are some ways to keep them safe: 

  • Make sure they have current ID on them in case you get separated (tags and chip to be safe)
  • Provide plenty of cool water
  • Beat the heat! Make sure the pavement isn't too hot and never leave them in a parked car alone
  • Keep them close to you, a short leash is your friend in a crowd
  • Practice "LEAVE IT" ahead of time, you don't want them scarfing up things off the ground that may hurt them
  • Stay alert to your environment and your dog, they may need a short break

I lived with dogs on both sides of the spectrum. My Jacques was scared of everything and being in a social environment was pure torture for him and stressful for me trying to keep him safe. He was much happier at home. Tank on the other hand, is a social butterfly. Every person is his new best friend, other dogs are new playmates, and he's pretty much bomb proof with noises. He even likes to sing along! We're still working on staying under control, because he thinks everyone exists to just love him and that he should be their lapdog. (FYI, he's not lapdog sized). Jacques I only took out when I had to and made sure his 'personal bubble' was as large as I could make it. Tank gets to come along to smaller venues that are close to home and easy to leave so we can practice his self control and public behavior. Where does your canine companion fit? Are they a party animal or a homebody? What other tips would add to these lists?