Dog friendly areas are not always what you expect them to be during the holidays. Many people may bring the entire family to the dog park, which will result in excited children running around playing with their own dog. Unfortunately, this could also mean that said children may also try to play with your dog. When dealing with untrained children, you may need to provide lessons on how they should behave around strange animals before they learn the hard way.
Consider socializing your pet with children before you take your pet along for the holidays. Ensure that your pet understands what children are and that there is no reason to be afraid of them. Most dogs are used to fully grown adults, and have no idea what to do with this tiny, squealing stranger that is bouncing toward them is going to do. When children are around, keep a closer eye on your pet than you normally do. If you pet becomes agitated by the child's presence, leash and remove them quickly.
Keep an eye out for any children that may be breaking the common no toys in the dog friendly areas rule. Many dogs don't care what the ball being thrown around looks like, they just know that it is an invitation to play. Untrained children may continue playing in the dog areas, which can cause your dog to become confused and feel she is being teased when the children won't give the ball to her. Always keep an eye out for this situation, and be prepared to call your dog back if she starts to confuse a child's toy with her own.
If children are running wild in the area, and seem to come up uninvited to play with your dog, do not hesitate to warn them away. If your dog becomes noticeably uncomfortable with the child's presence, feel free to call out and warn the child not to come any closer and to return to their parents. If needed, seek parental assistance to keep the insistent child away.
Should you realize that the dog friendly areas are filled with too many children for your dog to find any peace, consider taking your pet somewhere else. Many mobile apps exist that can help you find a different park to let your dog relax in. Ensuring that your dog is comfortable and enjoying himself is every bit as important as your own comfort during the holidays. Take the extra steps to give them a child-free area to play in.
Do you need more advice on how to cope in dog friendly areas when kids are around? Go to http://takeyourpet.com.au/ -- your one-stop-shop for pet-friendly tips and accommodation. Subscribe to the newsletter for a free pet travel report and the chance to win a FREE pet-friendly holiday!
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