Dog Owners

Here are some tips for dog owners to help keep your dog safe

• Vaccinate your dog

Keeping your dog's vaccinations up to date is an incredibly important step in keeping your dog and yourself healthy. Some common dog vaccinations are rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, and others. These vaccinations, and more, will help prevent zoonotic diseases and keep your dog healthy. 

• Know your dog

Is your dog scared around other dogs? Other people? All of these things are good to know when you are with your dog in public. Some dogs may feel threatened when approached, and may lash out. Research your dog breed, as some breeds can be more scared or aggressive. Rescue dogs may also have things they sensitive to, due to past trauma. When one knows their dog breed, they can let people know how best to approach (or not to approach) their dog, leading to safe interactions. 

• Train your Dog

Especially if your dog is a puppy, it is very important to train your dog. While your puppy could be very friendly, not all people are comfortable with your dog. It is a good idea to start training your dog as early as possible, as they are like sponges, and can more easily learn and retain information. However no matter what age your dog is, making sure the dog is trained is very important to safe interactions.

• Be aware of your dog outdoors

Most places, including Massachusetts have leash laws, however, even if your area doesn't, keeping your dog on a leash is a good idea. This way, your puppy will not run up to other puppies who might not be so comfortable around you dog. A leash will also keep your excited friend from running up to people who might not be so excited to see them. 

• Bites

If your dog bites someone, or you yourself gets bitten, it is important to know what to do. Wash the area of the bite first. If the bite breaks the skin, inquire about the dogs vaccination status, or see a doctor, especially if the bite gets infected.