Keep Your Dog Safe On A Walk

By Nan Talleno

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Taking your dog on a daily walk is not only a necessary activity but it should be a pleasant one as well. Unfortunately, you may encounter an obstacle here and there and you should always be prepared for any potential hazards.

First, you should have pocketed treats handy, (where your dog can't see them, of course!) It becomes quite useful as you teach your dog to sit at the curb to wait for passing traffic and your cue to continue. It can also be useful to help socialize your dog to new people, dogs, events or situations.

You should also always carry a water bottle or a water spray bottle to hydrate both you and your canine companion especially as the temperature rises. It also comes in handy as a safe and humane way to avert potential problems such as to redirect an unleashed dog if a threat arises to you or your dog.

You may also want to carry a second lead in case yours breaks. Sometimes even what seems to be the strongest hook or snap on a leash can become undone or broken unexpectedly. And you don't want to be caught off guard and risk losing your dog, especially in an unfamiliar area.

If your dog needs a little extra energy depleted on the walk and you can't devote more than 15 or 20 minutes, then a doggie training backpack may be useful.