Whether you walk your dog in the city or in a smaller community, you reap mutual benefits from this time spent together on a daily basis. Before starting out, be sure your dog is secured in his collar, I.D. tags and with his leash or harness. Harnesses are especially comfortable and secure for smaller dogs, keeping their delicate necks and tracheas free of pressure. Be sure to dress your pet for the weather.

Some extra tips for “city” walks should include your walking during the daylight hours. Early mornings and late afternoons are the safest times of day; be fully aware of your environment and other people around you. Keep to populated areas with good sidewalks whenever possible. If you must use a roadway without well-defined sidewalks, walk towards oncoming traffic (on the left side of the street) for maximum visibility. You are able to see the approaching traffic, especially helpful in inclement weather.

Each morning as we are getting ready for our walk, Lucy ascends and descends on her pet stairs and her dog ramp letting me know how enthusiastic she is to get underway. After this little display, she waits for me by her harness and the tube of disposable Baggies we take with us on our outings. I am also accustomed now to carrying pepper spray, or other personal safety items as added protection against assaults or potentially aggressive dogs.

We have learned to vary the routes we take and the exact times of day for our walks, to avoid being a potential target. Sometimes we choose a neighborhood park or playground in a safe area, or accessible streets with different sights and smells for Lucy, keeping to paved sections of roads in familiar locations out of harm’s way. In the city, there are also designated “dog parks”, friendly to dogs and their owners.

We have been scheduling our walks to give her the 30 – 60 minutes a day that works best for her energy level and temperament. My own schedule is adjusted accordingly to provide that for her. It comes with the territory.

Sometimes we incorporate errands into these blocks of time, getting other things accomplished as we go. In the city we can do what benefits us both. In our great metropolis or when we are in the country, she “heels” beside me to insure her safety and as a reminder of my “pack leader” status. Our excursions are always a fun and bonding experience.

Back at home, Lucy is eager to reach her favorite spot on the sofa. Her puppy stairs and pet ramps are perfect to keep her from jumping and stressing her joints during her travels.