Dog parks can be deadly

Dogs love dog parks, and so do their owners! The dogs get to run around, unleashed, and owners get to socialize with other pet owners.

But you have to be aware that they can also be a dangerous place, especially for puppies. Dogs are pack animals, with the larger breeds usually being dominant. And when one becomes aggressive, others can soon follow. Each year brings horrifying accounts of dogs being mauled or even killed by other dogs at dog parks. In fact, here at Gagemount Animal Hospital we saw a case this week, which is heart-wrenching and tragic.

To keep your dog safe, here are some tips to follow:

1. Do not take puppies under 8 weeks old to a dog park, as older dogs view them as weak and can become aggressive with them.
2. Keep your dog on a leash the first few visits, to allow your pet to socialize with the other animals.
3. Watch the other dogs for a few minutes before going into the park. Are there any that appear aggressive or are acting like the alpha male? If so, consider taking your dog for a leashed walk that day instead.

We, at Gagemount, hope these tips will help your pet have a safe summer!