Tips for taking your dog (or two) out in public
So, it’s the weekend and you’ve decided to cart your dog off to the pet store or the park! It seems like such a simple thing, but here are some things you might not have considered and their solutions.
Leave your nice, pretty purse at home!
You’re about to trek through the mud and poop-filled dog park. Do you really want to take your $200 Coach purse? I don’t think so. Plus, if you have two dogs like I do, I promise you will not be able to keep that purse up on your shoulder while your hands are full of leashes. Not to mention, you don’t need your last 10 Chipotle receipts; you need things for your dogs. So instead,
Pack a doggie diaper bag
Thankfully, dogs don’t actually need diapers, but they still need a lot! I recommend using a cute back pack to hold all of your pup’s necessary supplies, like a collapsible water bowl, treats, poop bags, and first aid kit. (To learn how to make your own doggie first aid kit, click here). You might also need to pack food, depending how long your excursion will last, toys, or special medication, etc., depending on your dog’s needs.
Choose the right leash for your adventure
If you’re going to a wildlife preserve where your dog can run free, a retractable leash would be a great option. However, if you’re going to a crowded parade, a short leash might be best for keeping control of your dog. Make sure you’re thinking about what will be safest and easiest for your dog, you, and those around you.
If you have two dogs, obviously it would be easiest if you could have someone go with you so each of you could hold one leash. If that’s not possible, though, there are a couple things you can get to make your life easier.
(Note: I am not affiliated with any of these products)
Leash Connector
Pros: You can control both dogs with one leash and they are kept close together.
Cons: One dog (Benny) may take the lead and drag the poor other dog (Emmett).
Double Retractable Leash
I have never used this product or anything like it, but judging by the reviews:
Pros: Each dog can run independently of the other.
Cons: It breaks after a few months.
Stroller
Maybe you'd rather not deal with leashes at all! In this case, a stroller would be your best option. I have used this exact model (and returned it), so I would suggest finding a different one.
Pros: The dogs are contained and you don't have to fuss with keeping them moving, untangled, etc.
Cons: If your dogs are excited, they don't want to stay in the stroller. It is difficult to find a stroller that fits two dogs.
Do you have a unique way to keep track of your dog? Let me know!
