How to Be a Good Dog-Owner in San Francisco

Step 6 HELP IMPROVE NEIGHBORHOOD-FRIENDLY DOG INFRASTRUCTURE

Though leading by example is great, you can help other dog owners pick up canine emissions by putting up a plastic bag dispenser near your home or in a well-traveled public space (and fill it with the bags you can't seem to avoid collecting from stores). If you're a renter, ask your landlord about putting one up. Or reach out to the local neighborhood association or dog owners' group in your neighborhood for advice and help.

Similarly, you may find that your neighborhood is in need of a dog run so that your loved one and her/his friends can frolic and play. Work with your new neighborhood dog friends and/or the neighborhood association to find a place that serves both dog-owners and non-dog owners. Be careful that you don't end up taking space away from some other established neighborhood group or need; your dogs will become a lightning rod for controversy instead of a great way to bring all kinds of people together.

Finally, encourage neighborhood stores to put out water and/or bone dishes for dogs during the day. It helps attract more customers for the store (the dogs will literally pull people to the store to get at that water), and makes a walk even easier for you and your little friend.

Comments

[p0g068]

 my pooches and I thank you for your instructable! your writing is very entertaining 

[ilovedobermans]

Hi, reposting my comment from a few pages ago, I didn't realize it was only on the ONE area! Jun 7, 2008. 10:45 PMilovedobermanssays: 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!"

[ilovedobermans]

The HSUS loads of information, and one I like is about the use of a Head Halter.hsus.org
Try this!