Take a Safe Evening Stroll

Look Out for Nocturnal Critters

Late sunrises and early sunsets mean you're more likely to come across some nocturnal animals. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, coyotes and bats may be out earlier than usual, and many of these animals are known to carry rabies and other diseases. First and foremost, make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines! Vaccines are the first line of defense if your cat or dog gets in a scuffle with a wild animal.

Many Wag N' Wash locations offer vaccine clinics right in the store, so ask a team member for more information. Invest in a pet first aid kit and a pet-safe wound spray like Vetericyn, too. Whether your pet gets a small scratch running into a bush or needs bandaging on the way to the vet, it's always a good idea to have supplies on hand. While out on a walk, consider carrying something like Pet Corrector. Pet Corrector emits a hiss of compressed gas which produces a broad spectrum sound. This can deter other animals from approaching you and your pet. Talking to a friend (or to your pet) while walking can also help alert nearby animals to your presence.

Most animals will try to escape if given the chance, reducing the risk of a confrontation. Finally, make sure your pet's collar or harness is well-fitted. Many dogs will chase after wild animals, and loose fitting gear can mean trouble. If they get loose, your pet could hurt another animal, could be hurt by an animal, could be hit by a car or could get lost. Always check your leash and harness or collar before leaving the house.

Light Up the Way

When it gets dark outside, having a few light sources around will help keep you and your pet safer. There are a number of products available from small lights that attach to a collar to LED collars that completely light up (like the ones from 4 Paws Tech, pictured here.) These collars and accessories will make it easier for your pet to be seen by other walkers and drivers. It will also help you search for your pet it they manage to get away from you. Many leashes now come with reflective material to improve visibility, too.

Talk to a team member about choosing the right products for you and your companion animal. It can also help to keep a handheld flashlight readily available. Many smaller ones can easily be attached to your leash for quick access. While light up collars and leashes can help others spot you and your pet, they don't provide a lot of light to see by. A flashlight can illuminate a bumpy path ahead or spot critters before they have a chance to get too close.

And don't forget the poop bags! There are few things as bad as being halfway through your walk and realizing you've run out. For more tips about pet walking and available gear, stop by your locally owned and operated Wag N' Wash and talk to a team member today!