Some people hate to put their dog on a leash and feel like it’s restrictive or confining to do so, but really – compared to the repurcussions of not having them leashed, it is so worth it! Did you know millions of dollars are spent each year on litigation alone over incidents involving dogs? That number does not include the millions spent in damages and lives affected or lost for letting your dogs roam without a leash.
Leash laws vary from state to state and even locally, but there are some simple rules that you should always follow as a dog owner, regardless of the laws in the area. First and foremost your dog should always be restrained in a public area. Always. If you frequent dog parks, where leashes are not required your dog should always be within eyesight and earshot while there. There are no exceptions to these two guidelines. As a responsible pet owner it is imperative that you know where your dog is and are able to control him/her at all times.
What’s so wrong with letting your dog roam free? Nothing if your dog is confined to your fenced in backyard. However once you step out in public, dogs that are not on a leash risk getting hurt or even killed due to autombiles and enounters with other dogs and people. Your dog is also at risk for running off. It only takes one wild rabbit to cross their path and an unleashed dog is very likely to chase the animal with no regard for his/her surroundings. Every day dogs go missing. You can prevent this from ever happening to yours by simply keeping him or her leashed or in a safe, confined area under your watchful eye.
Leash laws are designed to protect everyone – your precious pet, you, and other people and animals that you encounter. A well-trained dog is very happy to be with their owner, even if it means being on a leash. There is nothing restrictive about a leash when it means prolonging the life and well-being of your companion and maintaining good relationships within your community.
If you’re concerned about your dogs behavior while on a leash, i.e., he pulls or bites at it, consult an experienced dog trainer for help on resolving this very easy to correct issue. A well-trained dog will enjoy walking on a leash and not resist.
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