Walk Your Dog – Leash Up!

Animal Chronicles

October 13, 2024

By Brad Snyder

Walk Your Dog – Leash Up!

Autumn is my favorite season, and a great time to enjoy the beautiful hiking trails and outdoor spaces in the Capital Region. For the safety of your dog, it is important to remember one of the most important tools for responsible dog ownership: the leash. The Animal Protective Foundation (APF) strongly advocates for leash use to ensure the safety of both pets and people.

"Keeping your dog on a leash isn't just about following rules—it's about protecting your pet and respecting your community," says Kathy Snowden, ABCDT an instructor with the APF Canine Academy Program. "Even the most well-behaved dogs can be unpredictable in new environments or when faced with unexpected situations."

The temptation to let dogs run free, especially on seemingly empty trails, can be strong. However, the risks usually outweigh the benefits. Off-leash dogs may encounter wildlife, get lost, or even ingest harmful substances. They might also approach other dogs or people who are uncomfortable with or afraid of dogs, potentially leading to conflicts or injuries.

Legal considerations are another crucial aspect. Many areas, including most public spaces in Schenectady County, have leash laws that state that a leash can’t be longer than six feet. These regulations are in place to protect everyone—pets, pet owners and the public. Violating these laws can result in fines and, more important, put your dog at risk of injury or impoundment if caught running loose.

For those who want to give their dogs more freedom to run and play, there are safer alternatives to off-leash walking or hiking. Many communities have designated dog parks where pets can socialize and exercise off-leash in a controlled environment. The APF can provide information about local dog-friendly areas where your pet can safely enjoy some off-leash time.

Remember, using a leash is not just about control—it's about connection. A leash walk is an opportunity for bonding, training, and shared exploration between you and your dog. It allows you to guide your pet safely through various environments while reinforcing your role as their protector and leader.

For dog owners who find leash walking challenging due to pulling or other behavioral issues, the APF offers training classes to help. "Our Walking Workshops and other classes teach both dogs and their owners the skills needed for enjoyable, stress-free walks," explains Kathy Snowden. "We cover techniques to prevent pulling, improve focus and build a stronger bond between pet and owner. With proper training, leash walks can become a pleasant experience for everyone involved."

Even when your dog is on a leash, it is also important that they are licensed, have identification tags, and ideally a microchip in case they slip off the leash. The APF offers affordable microchip clinics several times a year.

As we strive to create a community where all companion animals are loved, respected and receive exceptional care, let's make leash use a non-negotiable part of responsible dog ownership. By doing so, we're not just complying with the law; we're actively contributing to a safer, more harmonious community for both humans and animals.

Brad Snyder is a volunteer at the Animal Protective Foundation (APF).

APF contributes Animal Chronicles articles and welcomes animal-related questions and stories about the people and animals in our community. Visit animalprotective.org, follow us on social media @AnimalProtectiveFoundation or email chronicles@animalprotective.org.