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Labor Day has passed, and school is in full swing! Everybody is settling into their daily routines, including the family pup. One of your dogs’ favorite activities may be seeing their best friends off at the bus stop or greeting them after a long day away!
Bus stop trips are an excellent opportunity for your pup to get fresh air and practice basic manners. However, there are some guidelines you should follow to keep your pup and other families safe. Check out our top tips below.
Respect the Leash Law in Connecticut
Make sure your dog is on a sturdy, non-retractable leash. First of all, it’s the law! It will also keep your dog safe and the families around you more comfortable and accepting of your pooch. A 4-to 6-foot leather leash is our recommendation and preferred method of restraint.
In summary, Connecticut’s leash laws state the following:
In the State of Connecticut, it is not a requirement to have a dog on a leash at all times. However, Connecticut General Statutes (CGS) Section 22-364 states that pet owners must not permit their dogs to wander onto state parks, public highways, sidewalks or someone else’s property if the dog is not under control. In addition, many cities in Connecticut have local ordinances that require pet owners to keep their dogs on leashes.
If a pet owner violates the state’s leash law, it is an infraction. However, if the owner or keeper of the dog knew that the dog had vicious propensities, had previously violated the state’s dog law in the preceding year, and the dog bites or injures someone while roaming at large, the penalty is a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail.
Be Mindful of Personal Space
You and your family LOVE your dog. Others might not! Avoid allowing your dog to jump on or toward others. Keep barking to a minimum. Most of all, stay attentive and conscious of your dog’s behavior at all times.
Similarly, do not allow your dogs to approach other dogs or children. Some dogs are leash-reactive, and some might be in training. Most dogs don’t like other dogs or little humans running up to their personal space. Stay in control and advocate for your pet.
Scoop the Poop at the Bus Stop
Pick up your dog’s poop. It sounds simple, but sometimes people forget! Is the bus stop in front of other’s homes? Be polite, and do not let your dog pee on their flowers.
Use the Opportunity to Teach Bus Stop Etiquette
Bring some training treats and use this opportunity to practice some basic manners. The bus stop provides distractions to ignore. Practice some heeling and sit-stays on your way down the road. This is a great time to reinforce basic commands and get your pup’s mind working.
The bus stop can be the perfect place for your dog to get used to new distractions, practice impulse control, and master basic commands. Be sure to stay aware and implement the above tips, and your trip to the bus stop will be full of fresh air, laughter, and wagging tails!
Do you have any additional tips to add? Does your dog enjoy going to the bus stop with you? Comment below and tell us all about them!
To learn how RCO Pet Care’s team of professional pet sitters and dog walkers can help you safely transition your furry crew this back-to-school season and beyond, check out our services, contact us, or call us at (203) 641-2428.
Jessica graduated magna cum laude with her Bachelor’s of Science in Animal Science from the University of Connecticut in 2015. Her animal-centered coursework here included courses in animal behavior, health and disease management, anatomy and physiology, basic through advanced nutrition and feeding, genetics, comparative exercise physiology, endocrinology, reproductive physiology and equine science.
Her resume also boasts hands-on work experience managing horse farms, working with animals ranging from prairie dogs and bison to South American Primates at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as well as care, training and management of domestic animals from hamsters to cows.
Outside of RCO, Jessica is the dog mom of five (Rocco, Luna, Owl, River and Peanut), enjoys reading, walking and training her own dogs, visiting Disney World and pursuing further educational opportunities.
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