Walking with your dog is more than just a daily routine—it’s an opportunity to bond, stay fit, and enjoy the outdoors together. Since adopting Dulce, our 15-pound terrier mix, and welcoming Mariposa, our Havanese puppy, into our family, I’ve committed to daily walks. With miles of wooded trails just a short distance from our front door, these walks have become a cherished part of our routine. While the benefits of walking are undeniable, Florida dog owners also need to be aware of potential hazards such as ticks, fleas, leptospirosis, and venomous snakes.
Health Benefits of Walking with Your Dog
Walking offers numerous physical and mental health benefits for both dogs and humans:
- Weight Management: Regular walks help dogs and their owners maintain a healthy weight. Personally, I’ve lost almost 10 pounds since making daily walks a habit!
- Joint Health: Walking keeps joints lubricated and reduces the risk of arthritis in both dogs and humans.
- Mental Stimulation: Exploring new scents, sights, and sounds provides essential mental enrichment for dogs, reducing boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Bonding Time: Training opportunities arise naturally during walks, and spending this quality time together strengthens the human-animal bond.
Florida-Specific Walking Hazards
While walking has many benefits, Florida presents unique challenges that pet owners should be mindful of:
Ticks and Fleas
Florida’s warm climate means fleas and ticks are a year-round concern. These parasites can carry serious diseases, including Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis. To protect Dulce and Mariposa, we use NexGard PLUS, which provides protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Regularly checking your dog for ticks after walks and keeping up with preventative treatments is essential.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is becoming increasingly common and is now considered a core vaccine for dogs. If you’ve been a pet owner for a long time, you may remember when the vaccine was considered risky, and leptospirosis wasn’t as prevalent. However, today, it’s a real threat, particularly in Florida’s warm and humid environment. Leptospirosis is transmitted through the urine of infected animals, including rodents, and can infect dogs that step in contaminated water or soil. Urban dogs are also at risk, as leptospirosis is commonly found in areas with high rodent populations, such as New York City. Ensuring your dog is vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect them.
Snake Awareness
Spring marks the time when snakes become more active. Florida is home to seven species of venomous snakes, but the most commonly encountered on trails are pygmy rattlesnakes and cottonmouths (water moccasins). Dogs are naturally curious and can easily get too close to a snake, leading to dangerous bites. If you’re walking in wooded areas, be aware of your surroundings, keep your dog on a leash, and avoid tall grass or brush where snakes may be hiding.
Training and Safety Considerations
Dulce and Mari are perfect examples of how dogs approach walking differently. Dulce, our spunky terrier mix, had to learn how to walk on a leash and has a habit of darting—resulting in my broken wrist and a rose bush disaster! Mari, on the other hand, took to leash walking naturally, staying in heel position and making almost constant eye contact. If your dog is still learning, consider:
- Using a front-clip harness or a gentle leader to discourage pulling.
- Practicing leash training in a low-distraction environment before hitting busy trails.
- Always carrying water, waste bags, and a first-aid kit for safety.
Join the Mutt March on April 5th!
If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy a walk with your dog while supporting a great cause, join us for the Mutt March Walk with Your Dog event on Saturday, April 5th, benefiting the Jacksonville Humane Society. This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow dog lovers, promote pet adoption, and support the vital work of the JHS. Whether your dog is a seasoned leash walker or still learning, this is a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and celebrate the joy of dog ownership!
Capture the Magic of Your Adventures with a Private Woodlands Session
For those who love exploring trails with their dogs, our Private Woodlands Sessions offer a stunning way to capture your dog’s adventurous spirit in nature. These sessions are perfect for active dogs who love to run, jump, and explore in a serene, wooded environment. If you cherish your trail walks and want to preserve those moments forever, this session is for you!
Final Thoughts
Walking with your dog is one of the best ways to stay active and enjoy time together. While the benefits are immense, Florida’s environment presents specific risks that dog owners should be mindful of. By staying informed and taking preventative measures, you and your furry companion can make the most of your outdoor adventures safely.
What’s your favorite place to walk with your dog? Share your experiences in the comments!
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