How to Be a Good Dog-Owner in San Francisco

Step 3 YOUR DOG ON A WALK: THE BASICS

The NUMBER ONE RULE of being a good San Francisco dog-owner on a walk is PICK UP THE POOP. It may seem obvious enough, but those stray piles on the street are clear signs that some us aren't listening. So when you go on a walk, always bring a plastic bag. Stash them in your coat pockets, or if you're the forgetful type, pick up one of those handy leashes that has a bag dispenser attached. (Check out "Bags on Board" to start.)

Other bare minimum rules include:

-Keep your dog leashed where it is legally required to do so. Again, though you may know that your dog is a big ole Mrs. Softee, a good number of people on the street don't want to chance that she's not, or have to deal with a dog rubbing on or sniffing them.

-When your dog is unleashed in an acceptable area, keep an eye on it for its own safety.

-License your dog-- it's the law! You can do it online. Collar you dog with your phone-number too, so if it chases that squirrel into the next neighborhood, someone will be able to return it to you easily.

-Vaccinate your dog appropriately. (Contact your vet for all that info.)

-And of course-- talk to your neighbors when you're on the walk. Make new dog owning friends, or new dog loving-but-not-owning friends.

Comments

[ilovedobermans]

Adding in my $5, (hey, inflation, y'know!) on being a good dog owner, think about having your dog in your home at night. Crate train, or a doggy bed. Usually dogs don't need to go out at night, and will be quiet. Well, I never heard anyone complain, and I know LOTS of dog owners. Now you don't have to worry about your dog barking at night! PS If you dog does make noise, check it out. There may even be a reason! Voice of experience. Usually with my dobies I ask "What is it?" Open the door, ask out "Hello?" Then thank my dog like "Oh, good boy, Buddy! Thank you!" And they are very happy, having done their duty, and content that you checked it out. PPS If you think your dog is there for "protection", the dog won't guard what isn't his, ie the backyard is his property, and what good does it do you if a) you ignore his concerns and yell "shut up!" and b) the burglar gets in the house and the dog can't? Thank you for reading this, I hope I made sense! "Whoever says money can't buy love has never cuddled up to their own loving snuggly dobie!"