Social Distancing At The Dog Park
March 25, 2020
With most of the country under lockdown due to the coronavirus, you might be asking if you should stay away from the dog park.
In fact, the dog park is one of the few public spaces you can still go and get a little social interaction. So we put together a list of social distancing tips and what to watch out for when you’re headed to the dog park.
Social distancing at the dog park
1. If the dog park is too busy and full of people, choose another route to walk your dog.
2. Get to know the busy times in the dog park and visit when it’s not full of people.
3. Sanitize your hands after touching the gates to the dog park before and after leaving.
4. Maintain a safe distance from other people in the park by as much as six feet away.
5. Do not pet the other dogs and sanitize your hands if you do.
6. Give your dog a good rub down after leaving the park, especially if they’ve been playing with other dogs.
7. Wash any towels or doggie sweaters as soon as you return home.
Taking your dog for a walk is a great way to get some exercise during self-isolation. You and your dog will appreciate the fresh air and it will give you a change from being cooped-up indoors.
Wide open parks are the best place to walk your dog right now. Always keep them on a leash, in case they get away and you have to interact with someone to get them back.
Dog walking on the sidewalks is a little more challenging. If you can’t pass someone within the recommended six feet, then cross the street or walk along the curb. Keep your dog on a short leash and make sure they don’t interact with anyone passing by.
If you live in the city, it’s going to be a challenge to walk your dog within a safe distance from people. Popping the dog into the car and driving to the nearest park is your best option. Failing that, try walking your dog early in the morning or later at night to avoid people. You could also plan out a route that safely navigates around your neighbourhood, giving you the space you need to stay safe.
If you are in self-quarantine, have just returned from travelling, or have been diagnosed with COVID-19, letting your dog out in the backyard is about your only option. If you’re in an apartment, check out some pee-pee pads or turf pads for your dog to relieve himself on the balcony.
We are all doing our best to stay home and stay safe, so be careful out there and when you have to take your dog for a walk, practice social distancing always.