Written by Bren Parker
Fall means shorter days and longer nights and as nightfall comes earlier in the evening, it often means you’ll be walking the dog in the dark. This can pose some safety risks for nighttime walkers if they aren’t prepared. Whether you’re walking your dog down the street or at the local park, keep these tips in mind for a safe stroll with your pet.
-Wear reflective or light colored clothes. This will make you more visible to passing cars.
-Buy your dog a reflective or illuminated vest, collar or leash. Again, drivers are more likely to see you and Fido.
-Be on the look out for wildlife. You don’t have to live in a rural area to encounter a raccoon, fox, or coyote. Coyotes tend to come out at dusk and have been known to attack dogs. Keep an eye out for large predatory birds such as owls and hawks who could misjudge a small dog as prey.
-Stay off your phone and know what’s going on around you. In the dark you need to watch where you’re going so you don’t end up on your face….or fall on your dog.
-Always keep your dog leashed. You don’t want them running off in the dark.
-Consider taking along a flashlight or using the one on your phone.
