As dogs all over the world are happy that their pet parents are home so much more during the lockdown and taking them on walks, dogs during this time need to stay on leashes more than ever as they can create more human to human contact.
By visiting with other dogs, your dog will bring you close to the other dog parents and visa versa. Also, although there is no evidence of dogs catching coronavirus, they are certainly capable of bringing it back to you on their fur.
As states in the US are opening up most pet parents are or will shortly be able to walk our dogs on leash, Dogfriendly.com published a short guide on social distancing with your dog.
Dog parks in most states have been closed for the initial shutdown stages but many are now open with phase one openings. Parks in some cities and states have been closed too but with proper social distancing many have remained open. Dogfriendly.com advises that dogs should remain on leash when in parks and well controlled in dog parks.
It also advises that some people who require limited risk of infection should pick the slower times to walk their dog or to go to the neighborhood dog park.
If you are a fan of dining with your dog, the guide advises doing takeaway and having picnics outdoors.
“Your dog will love take out food where you find the nearest picnic bench, your house deck or your living room and enjoy dinner with them. As restaurants open up we will likely want to eat outdoors more in an area more accessible to our furry buddies,” Dogfriendly.com states.
On traveling, the guide states, “Traveling in an RV or tent camping is good for your dog and likely good for avoiding coronavirus for people. Unlike a hotel room, where you don’t know who stayed there the night before and have lots of doorknobs to touch you bring your lodging with you when camping. And you can bring your dog. Social distancing is easier as well.”
Len Kain, President of DogFriendly.com, said, “Never have so many places been closed to us and our dogs as has been the case recently. As things have started to open up there are more opportunities for people with dogs to venture out.”
Commentary
As the US states continue to open up, dog parents should be aware of the risks involved when it comes to having their dogs socialize with other dogs. While dogs need to socialize with their own kind, just like we do, it is important for humans to keep their distance in order to avoid spreading the virus. It might be a good idea that if your dog manages to have a lot of contact with others, especially high-risk people, to give them a bath, or even a slight wipe down, immediately after.