Weekly Walker, ed. 5.22
As just part of our dog walkers’ continuing education, a newsletter is emailed out most weeks with any important information about the upcoming week, weather and safety advisories, as well as tips, tricks, and other useful or fun information about the dogs we care for daily. Here are some of the things we like to share! Happy Monday! Hope you had an awesome weekend. Quick reminder first, it’s still summer and still hot out! Ensure the dogs you are walking have your complete attention and call us right away with any concerns. Better to be safe than over do it and risk paw burns, heat stroke, or worse. Extra reading up this week, some new, some old, but all worth reading. Please pay particular attention to the first article about “foxtail” grasses as one of our own pup-clients recently had a scary encounter with some along the river walking trail. Luckily his humans saw him ingest it, and after a visit to the ER Vet is doing okay. We helped a lost dog Friday morning too make it to CACC safely in hopes of his family finding him there, Hopefully he’s made it home by the time you read this, but if not, please share his picture to help get him home! Beware of Foxtail Grass This Summer Tis the season for these deadly grass seeds to dig into your dog.“Foxtail” is a generic term that’s often applied to several species of wild grasses, but is specifically associated with a type of wild barley (Hordeum jubatum). As the plant begins to dry out in the summer months, the seed heads, also known as awns, become brittle and fall off the plant. As they continue to dry, the long foxtail breaks into smaller and smaller segments, with each sharp-pointed awn sporting a few long bristles. Viewed under a magnifying glass, each bristle is covered with an infinite number of microscopic barbs. If an animal brushes by the dry plant (or steps on it, sniffs it, rolls on it, lies on it, ad nauseum), the microscopic barbs catch on its fur. Sometimes the awn falls from the animal’s fur on its own. However, if the awn doesn’t fall out, is ingested, or it hooks into another area of the animal, that’s when the trouble starts. Read on in Whole Dog Journal or do a quick Google Image search to see just some of the potential consequences. Found Dog Do you recognize him?Sweet male Samoyed found very early Friday morning in Roscoe Village, please share to find his family and help get him home! Intact male, found with collar and leash but no tags and no microchip. He was taken to Chicago Animal Care and Control, ID#A202948. Ancient Dogs of the Americas… Were Wiped Out by European ColonizationThe first dogs came to the Americas more than 10,000 years ago, across the Bering land bridge that connected North America and Asia. Afterward, the dogs dispersed across the Americas, where they lived for 9,000 years, isolated from the world. But those dogs aren’t the dogs you’ll pet today.So what happened to them? Read more at Live Science From National Geographic: Just like human babies, dogs have non-verbal ways of getting what they want. While studying canine behavior, researchers recently identified 19 referential gestures. A referential gesture is one that brings the owner’s attention to a specific object or event.While the short video here is pretty basic, that actual study published in the journal Animal Cognition is rather interesting. Coolest Dogs of 2019 here to show you how to do it.
5 Dog-Friendly Summer Spots in Chicago
There are plenty of rules and regulations to abide by if you’re a dog owner in Chicagoland. But as long as you look out for the regulations that apply when you decide to take your dog for a walk, you’re sure not to run into any problems. If you live on a busy schedule and you want to walk your furry friend while having lunch or grabbing drinks with a friend at the same time, you might encounter some difficulties. Not all places in Chicago allow you to bring pets but don’t worry – there are plenty that do. Here are our favorite dog-friendly places in Chicago: Murphy’s Bleachers Murphy’s Bleachers is located in the heart of Wrigleyville. Generally speaking, this area is not overly pet-friendly, but there are quite a few bars that allow pets, and Murphy’s Bleachers is one of them. The bar has been around since 1891, and it’s located in a perfect spot to catch the game while also taking your dog for a walk. Whether you’re looking for a quick beer or Bingo Night, we’re sure that you will enjoy this place. Feel free to bring a few dog treats with you! DryHop Brewers There is nothing like quenching your thirst with a delicious and refreshing craft Chicago beer! And is there a better place to do it than surrounded by beer enthusiasts? On top of that, your pet is as welcome as you are. We’re talking about DryHop Brewers located in Lakeview East. Whether you want to enjoy a heavy IPA or an easy citrusy ale, DryHop Brewers is the place to add to your dog walking route. 1340 Beer Wine Spirits Formerly known as Madison Vine Wines, 1340 is also one of the friendliest places for dogs in Chicago. It is a great place for dog lovers craving a good wine selection. If you want to taste the wines from around the world or go out on a nice first date, there is no need to leave your pet behind. At 1340 Beer Wine Spirits, you can relax with your pet right beside you. Montrose Dog Beach Throughout spring and summer, Montrose Beach is one of the most crowded areas in Chicago. Wouldn’t a playdate in the sand with dozens of other dogs be an awesome experience for your furry pal? You could also meet other dog lovers and make lifelong friendships. Fortunately, there is a huge dog-friendly area of Montrose Beach where all dogs can take a swim or wrestle in the sand. Be ready to get wet, as your dog will certainly see to it! White Sox Games It would be nice to be able to take your dog to a baseball game, wouldn’t it? Fortunately, Chicago’s White Sox have included regular dog days into their schedule. Bear in mind that you have to get a special ticket if you want to watch a game with your pup. This year’s dog days are April 29 and September 10. People at White Sox have really gone out of their way to make the Dog Days comfortable for the pet visitors. Throughout the day, your pet will have access to comfort stations that are installed in the Outfield concourse. Chicago is truly one of the friendliest cities for dogs in the country. Since we know how busy your schedule can get, you should always have a backup in case you can’t take your dog for a walk. Chicago’s friendliest dog walkers will provide you with peace of mind when you need to leave your pet alone for a day, or an entire vacation for that matter. Find your ideal dog walker today with Cruisin’ Canines!
Finding a Reliable Dog Walker
Regardless of how big of a backyard you have, for your dog to stay healthy and happy, they need regular exercise and daily walks. With busy work schedules and daily responsibilities, most of us cannot meet this need on a daily basis, unfortunately. That’s why most of us turn to professional dog walkers. They make our lives so much easier, and our pooches so much happier, but it can be difficult choosing the right one for you and for your best friend. Let’s see what you can do to make this choice easier for yourself. Ask for Recommendations You might see a lot of ads by dog walkers around your local dog park, but you can’t really know how reliable they are. So, it’s always best to check with other owners. You’re not the first person to need dog walking services and asking around about the most reputable walkers is always going to be helpful. You’ll usually get a lot of information, and people will most likely be more than happy to share their own experiences with specific dog walkers. Your veterinarian might have some inside information as well, so don’t be shy to ask around. Do Your Research If all else fails, you can always turn to the internet. Check online reviews and read up on other owners’ experiences. Take this information with a grain of salt, however. New dog walkers might have amazing reviews online, but that could be because it takes time for people to have subpar experiences and share them online. On the other hand, amazing dog walkers with years of experience and an army of happy clients behind them might still have some negative reviews. Schedule a Visit Once you’ve gathered some information and have a few phone numbers, schedule a visit. This will give you an opportunity to meet your potential dog walker and form an opinion for yourself. The dog walker will spend a lot of time with your pooch, so observe the interaction between them. Most dogs are shy when they meet new people but look at the walker’s reaction. You want an assertive, yet friendly person. You might also want to join them on their first walk. You’ll see how responsive they are to your dog, and how they handle him or her. A Reliable Dog Walker A reliable dog walker will have enough experience to provide your dog with the best care, and they’ll be licensed and insured. Companies like Cruisin’ Canines give you a clear insight into their business, and you have all the information necessary about their dog walkers, pricing, and more. You can check their reviews, choose the walker that you like the most, and since they’re insured, you can rest easy knowing your pooch is in good hands. Dogs are more than just pets, they’re our family members, and you want to give them the best care possible. Leaving them with companies like Cruisin’ Canines will ensure that your best friend is well taken care of. Find your perfect dog walker with Cruisin’ Canines today!
5 Tips for Spring Dog Walking
Spring is officially here, but winter didn’t get the memo yet. As a result, you can still be surprised by a sudden rainfall or get ankle-deep in mud. The temperatures in Chicago can drop without any warning throughout March and April, and rain can come at any moment so don’t get excited too soon. This can be a nuisance for pet owners across the city, mostly because wet weather and misbehaved dogs don’t go well together. Potential health risks are an even greater cause for concern, as your furry friend can easily catch a cold while walking home all wet from the rain. But you can prevent all this with the following five tips for spring dog walking: Keep Your Dog Warm & Cozy We’ve mentioned previously how sudden rainfall can be dangerous for your dog’s health, especially in combination with low temperatures. If you’re a proud owner of a fashionable pooch who enjoys strutting around in little jackets and boots, then you can skip to the next tip. If not, you should at least have a dog raincoat that you can wrap your pup in as soon as you notice the first rain cloud. You should still insist on boots, though, since having a raincoat alone cannot protect your dog from getting wet from melting snow and ice. Set Up a Quick Cleaning Station You’ll need a solid mat, a dog towel, and a damp cloth. Use them to set up a quick cleaning station at the entrance of your house before you leave for a walk. That way, you’ll have everything you need to clean your dog’s dirty paws at hand and you won’t have to scrub the mud off the porch steps every time you return from a walk. Avoid Unfamiliar Walking Spots Though spring is a great time to start exploring the city, the melting snow can leave streets and parks brimming with trash. For dogs, few things are more exciting than piled up garbage and stale food. Spring lawns are then a smorgasbord of unauthorized snacks. Because of this and also because of all the potentially harmful objects that can hurt your dog’s paws, it may be best to postpone spring excursions for a couple of weeks until the snow is gone, and the trash is cleaned up. Stick around your block, where you know what to expect. Have Water & Treats on You For the same reason, but also because street puddles can be full of mud and salt from the melting snow, don’t forget to bring fresh water and some treats for the walk. When it comes to avoiding risky distractions, there isn’t a more effective trick than this one. Curb Your Dog’s Hunting Instinct The treat bag may fail to do the trick if your dog picks up a squirrel smell, though. Spring is a hunting season even for domesticated animals, as prey drive can never be fully eliminated. This is another reason why you should avoid unfamiliar walking spots. Have fun but stay alert! Find the best and most prepared dog walkers with Cruisin’ Canines today!
4 Must-Visit Chicago Spring Dog Walking Spots
After a long and harsh winter, the weather is finally almost perfect for catching a few sunrays with your best friend. Dogs enjoy the endless splendor of springtime as much as humans do, but finding a nice place to kick back and relax in sun-kissed Chicago can be a problem. If you and your pooch are both bored with the same old walking route, these amazing Chicago spots will help you keep it fresh and interesting. Here are our top 4 picks for the best spring dog walking spots: 1. Montrose Beach Montrose Beach is open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset, in accordance with Chicago’s own Park District nine-to-nine schedule. This makes it perfect for just about any kind of a whole-day outdoor adventure you’d want to share with your dog. And need we mention… Montrose Beach is the city’s first off-leash beach zone! This exciting news means that there’ll be plenty of friendly faces and wet snouts for both of you to spend your day with. Other dog owners will keep you company while your pooch is busy hanging out in the sand and splashing in the water. 2. Navy Pier An amazing place for humans and dogs alike, Chicago’s Navy Pier provides ample opportunities for a spring excursion down to the Lake Michigan. This is especially true for the south dock, which provides additional walking space and is always packed with canine lovers. The best thing about this beloved Chicago walking spot is that it boasts a myriad of dog-friendly restaurants and shops, in addition to the amazing view of the city skyline. You don’t even have to bring any snacks – there’s something for every dog’s taste. 3. Belmont Harbor Dog Beach Belmont Harbor Dog Beach is an off-leash walking zone as well, though it’s significantly smaller than Montrose Beach. But just like the smallest pups are traditionally the cutest, this beach is an adorable little playground for dogs of all breeds, shapes, and sizes. If your pup likes to get silly with his friends, then this is the place. On a typical Saturday morning, you’ll find at least ten to fifteen dogs at Belmont Harbor Dog Beach, so make sure to pick your timing. Bring your dog’s towel and some spare clothes as well, as it is usually a splash fest. You won’t be needing any toys, that’s for sure. 4. Magnificent Mile On the other side of the spectrum is the Magnificent Mile, a posh promenade for well-behaved and fashion-forward dogs. Known for high-end window shopping, this luxury Chicago district is brimming with Miniature Bull Terriers, Italian Grayhounds, and frisky Maltipoos. You won’t be able to browse all the stores, though. The Magnificent Mile is still a picturesque walking spot for dog owners who want to spend an afternoon strutting down the city’s busiest street. If you don’t care for crowded places, we recommend taking your furry buddy someplace else, as the Magnificent Mile attracts locals and tourists alike. Have a nice walk and a frolicking afternoon! Find an adventurous spring dog walker with Cruisin’ Canines today!
What Does It Mean If My Dog Sheds Excessively?
Unless your faithful sidekick is an American Hairless Terrier, then you’re very familiar with a little side effect of owning a dog known as “Pet Hair Everywhere”. Vets call this normal phenomenon shedding and warn that it is not to be confused with abnormal fur loss caused by an underlying issue. So, how can you tell which is which? If your dog sheds excessively or your non-shedding “hypoallergenic” dog starts losing hair, what does it actually mean? Sometimes Shedding Is Normal, Sometimes It’s Not Year-round shedding in dogs occurs as a natural part of the hair growth cycle to which you’ve probably grown accustomed to by now. Except for the unfortunate fact that it leaves your furniture and upholstery in a mess, this type of shedding is no cause for concern. Messy or not, it’s what all healthy dogs do. The only difference is, while some dogs shed their hair all year round, others do it seasonally. In most cases, seasonal shedding usually happens in spring and fall, when dogs prepare for the upcoming change in climate by shedding their undercoat behind. The upper layers of fur itself lose hair too, but still appear intact. And, that’s exactly how you can tell whether or not your furry friend sheds excessively. The kind of dog shedding to which we refer as normal, whether it takes place throughout the year or only during spring and fall, usually manifests itself in rogue hair in the dog’s fur or on your carpet, sofa, and clothes. The abnormal shedding leaves traces on the pet’s body that are visible and hard to miss. And if your dog is hypoallergenic and not supposed to be shedding at all, any sign of hair loss should be taken with caution. What to look for? Pay attention to bald spots and entire patches of missing fur, for starters. A dog that sheds excessively typically experiences skin problems as well. The remaining hair may become brittle and dry and start to break easily. The dog may begin to behave differently, randomly avoiding your touch. What Causes Such Troubling Hair Loss in Furry Dogs? If you notice any of these signs of excessive shedding or hair loss in your hypoallergenic dog, it probably means that there’s an underlying health issue that must be catered to and treated under professional supervision. Grab your dog’s favorite toy and bring them to the vet. Don’t panic, as these issues can be remedied. There are a couple of factors that can trigger excessive shedding in dogs: Allergies to pest bites, food, and medication, as well as to household and pet products. Hormonal imbalances, among which hypothyroidism is most common in dogs. Pregnancy and lactation, which also fall under the category of hormonal imbalances. Various skin conditions, which can be triggered by fungal or bacterial infections. Adrenal diseases, such as Cushing’s disease. Stress and trauma, as a consequence of an illness, an accident, or frequent moving. Stress from routine situations, such as veterinary visits, can cause excessive shedding for short periods of times How to Successfully Treat Excessive Dog Shedding? Whatever the underlying issue is, excessive shedding in dogs can be successfully treated as long as the issue at hand is discovered on time. This is why you shouldn’t take your chances with homemade remedies but take your dog to the vet immediately. Unlike a professional, the internet can be wrong. Depending on the specific health issue, you can expect your dog’s vet to recommend: Antibiotics, in case your canine friend suffers from bacterial infections. Other medications or procedures, in the off-chance that there’s a nodule or a tumor. Hormone treatment, which typically includes supplements. If it turns out that medication is not necessary, you can start reducing shedding through nutrition and grooming. Find a proper brush, designed specifically with your dog’s breed in mind, and switch to hydrocortisone shampoos and sprays, made to calm irritated skin and accelerate healing of skin cells. As for nutrition, the most common food allergies are triggered by chicken, beef, eggs, soy, corn, and wheat, so make sure to exclude these ingredients from the dog’s daily menu. As a replacement, include olive oil or flaxseed oil to wholefood or add vitamin supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids. If your furry little friend leaves more hair on the couch than usual or any hair at all if they’re hypoallergenic, the importance of pre-emptive care cannot be overstressed. Trust your dog’s doctor, and don’t take matters into your own hands. Excessive dog shedding is not a cause for alarm, but it’s always better to be responsible and stay on the safe side. Cruisin’ Canines is your source for all dog care tips and professional Chicago dog walkers. Contact us today if you’re in need of any dog walking, dog boarding, or in-home pet visits.
The 2018 Guide to Dog Walking in the Winter
The winter months will be here before you know it. And that means that dog walks are going to get a bit more challenging for both you and your dog but that doesn’t mean they need to be less fun! We love our dogs, but let’s face it, sometimes we get lazy, and taking our dog for a walk can seem like a difficult thing to do especially is the cold winter months. This is especially true if you’re prone to harsh Chicago winters./p> Dog walks can be particularly difficult during the winter. Morning hours can be dreadfully cold and that’s when most owners take their dogs out before work. There are ways you can make dog walks in the winter enjoyable again. Check them out. Getting proper protection for yourself The first thing you need is adequate winter gear. Apart from getting clothes that will keep you warm, you also need to make sure that you get boots that will give you better traction, especially if your dog is a jolter. Even though you’re able to control your pet in regular conditions, everything will be a bit more difficult in the winter snow. Wear layers of clothes with leggings, shirts, and long underwear. Make sure that you wear a proper winter coat, hats, gloves, and boots. Trust us, you won’t regret it. Get protection for your dog if necessary Overall, most dog breeds can easily handle a winter walk in cold temperatures for a moderate amount of time. However… There are dog breeds that don’t do well in the cold and if your dog is one of those, then you need to make sure that you keep your furry friend protected as well. Dogs with short hair, old dogs, and small puppies need more protection than other dogs, as they can find it difficult to keep warm. Make sure to get an adequate dog vest that’s water resistant. It’s also beneficial to invest in a pair of dog booties to ensure that their paws stay warm as well. One of the difficulties you’ll have to overcome is to teach your dog to wear them. Most dogs aren’t fans of wearing things on their paws. Make sure to do a little training with your dog first before going out. Make sure your dog doesn’t eat any snow Dogs are omnivores and they like to eat, well, everything. This is why you can expect your dog to try and snack on some snow. This might seem like a minute problem but it’s actually quite bad for them. Not only will eating snow decrease their body temperature drastically, but chances are that the snow might contain some harmful chemicals or waste. Snow can also have small and sharp objects that might injure them. Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog and bring treats to ensure that he or she doesn’t eat snow. Bring treats along to Keep a close eye on your best friend – you can never be too sure. Don’t go near water No matter what you do and where you go, make sure that there is no chance that your dog will get too wet. Even if your dog is used to cold temperatures (like huskies), getting wet can be extremely dangerous as not only will your dog get colder, but the water can freeze and hurt them. Luckily, Chicago is filled with many dog-friendly parks where your dog will be safe even during winter. To be careful, make sure to bring something to dry him or her if they get wet as quickly as possible – a dry towel will do. In the end, even if your dog is very much used to the cold, you need to pay attention to his or her behavior. If you see signs like shivering, shaking, or slow movement, make sure to take your dog home as we quickly as possible. And finally – we cannot stress this enough – even if you have a dog that does well in the cold, chances are that he or she got is more comfortable with higher temperatures and can’t withstand being out in the winter for a long time. Be safe. For more dog walking tips or if you’re looking to find the perfect dog walker to take your furry best friend on winter adventures for you look no further than Cruisin’ Canines. We’re Chicagoland’s premier source for dog walking services. Give your dog the walk they deserve.
How to Deal with a Shy Dog
A lot of dogs are friendly, and they love to be close to people. Some dogs just aren’t as open to meeting new people. Every dog is different. Some dogs are full of excitement and always want to cuddle up. Others tend to be more on the introverted and shy side. A reason for a dog’s shyness can be due to a number of factors but, no matter what the case might be, dealing with a shy dog can be a challenging task. You’ll have to put in a bit of extra effort for them to be 100% comfortable with you and your friends. Luckily, Cruisin’ Canines has a few tips on how you can make a shy dog comfortable with whatever is thrown their way. Here is how you can do this: Don’t force contact It can take a lot of time to earn the trust of a shy dog. Unlike with extroverted dogs, you need to ease into interactions with shy dogs. Rather than focusing on what you want, focus on what the dog wants. And, in this case, they may just want a bit of space. Give the dog space to make important decisions and let he or she approach you when it wants to rather than the other way around. When the dog feels comfortable enough, it will approach you on his or her own. You just need to be patient and give them time. Some of the clearest signs that you should give dog space are lip licking, panting, stiffness, growling, tucked tail, and gaze averting. If you notice any of these signals or a combination, make sure to give your pet a little room. Help the dog feel safe All dogs, when they are adopted, may feel a bit scared and out of place. New owners need to try to show them that they are home and safe. Only then will the dog start to feel more comfortable, relaxed, and start breaking out of their shell. Show the dog that you’re their friend. A good place to start is to keep your voice low and speak calmly. Don’t make any big gestures or sudden moves. In case you are a lot taller than your dog, it might feel intimidating. Try to crouch down or and sit on the floor so you’re on their level and then interact with your dog. Approach the dog as gently as possible without any sudden movements or loud noises. During this period, it’s essential to avoid any negative actions that might scare your dog. They’re sensitive, and you don’t want to frighten them. Go out for a walk When your new pooch has finally started to warm up to you, try to take them out for a walk. One of the best ways to make your dog relaxed and to build trust with them is to make them associate you with what they love. Well, we all know that dogs simply love walks and this is a great opportunity to create a bond. At the same time, if your dog is still not doing well with space, a walk is a good way to get them up and moving while still being close to your furry friend at all times, showing them that being near you is no reason to be scared whatsoever. Train & reward No matter what kind of behavior you’re trying to change, try to do it in a subtle way, without startling your dog. Do this by calmly verbalizing everything that you want your dog to do (or not to do). Demonstrate what you want from them. At the same time, it is crucial to reward your dog every time they show good behavior. Whenever you feel like they did something good, be it obeying a command or being relaxed around other people, make sure to reward them. This will not only have a practical benefit, but it will also get your shy dog to stop worrying. He or she will gain confidence and start to act freely. In the end, remember to stay patient. Dealing with a shy dog can be frustrating but you shouldn’t give up on your new friend. After a couple of months of actively working, you will be able to see great results. For a few other tips or if you’re in need of a dog walker or boarding, contact Cruisin’ Canines. We’re experts in making your dog as happy as can be.
Fun Winter Activities You and Your Dog Can Enjoy
Dogs keep us active all the time, so winter isn’t an excuse to avoid walking or playing outside. It’s true that we often become lazy when winter comes, but we must satisfy all our dog’s needs, no matter how cold it is outside. No matter how much you enjoy winter and snow, your dog will love it more. Instead of running home after each short walk, stay outside with your dog longer and enjoy the snow. We found some great tips and winter activities to make you and your dog happy even if it’s freezing outside. Scavenger hunt and fetch Dogs enjoy running and scavenger hunts all year round, but when winter comes, and the first snow covers the parks and backyards, dogs start enjoying these activities even more. Bring your dog’s favorite toy, treats, tennis ball or find a stick in the park. Your dog will enjoy running and playing fetch. Besides, you can hide treats or toys around your backyard and motivate your dog to run and find all these hidden treasures. Winter is an excellent period for exercising. That way, you and your dog will stay fit and active. Choose running instead of walking It’s understandable that you can’t stay out for as long as you would in the summer when it’s cold, but your dog needs to burn all that surplus energy. Instead of returning home with an energized dog ready for more activities, you should run instead of walk. Running through a park covered with snow will help you burn calories and stay fit during the winter, and your dog will be tired and quiet until the next walk. Dogs love running through high levels of snow and it’s easy on your joints as well. Instead of walking for an hour, you can run with your dog for 20 minutes – the result will be the same. Sledding If you have young children, you know that sledding is their favorite winter activity. Instead of spending all day outside playing with your kids and THEN walking your dog, combine these activities. Like children, dogs also like pulling sleds and even participating in sledding. Set up a short course and your child and dog will enjoy it together. This activity shouldn’t last exceptionally long, because you don’t want your dog to pull too much weight for too long. Note: All these activities must be supported by proper equipment. Get some cozy clothes for your fluffy friend and keep him dry and warm. You should buy a jacket or sweater, or even footwear for your dog. Stay outside until your dog gets tired, after that, hurry home and warm him up. If you’re looking for a top-notch dog walker this winter, find your perfect walker with Cruisin’ Canines!
3 Secrets of Chicago Dog Walking
Dog walking is a difficult job that requires a lot of dedication and love. Every business where you work with people is challenging, but when their pets are involved, things can become even more complicated. Dog walkers always need to multitask so that they can properly care for each dog and offer them plenty of love. All dogs have different personalities, and dog walkers must find the best approach to each one. When you live in a big city like Chicago dog walking can be even more challenging, so let’s look at some of the secrets dog walkers wish everyone knew. 1. It’s all about balance and loving your job This job can be stressful but relaxing at the same time, and that balance must be kept all the time. Since caring for dogs is challenging and can cause a lot of stress, dog walkers must be aware of all the problems that might pop up. Being accustomed to different dog breeds makes you ready for all unforeseen situations, and you’ll know precisely how to react to avoid major issues. The unconditional love between dogs and dog walkers is a relief valve. Instead of being mad after a dog does something inappropriate, a dog walker is filled with love at the moment the dog looks at them or jumps to play. These caring people achieve that balance only because they love their jobs. 2. Walking a dog has more benefits than just burning energy Dog walkers usually walk several dogs at the same time, and each dog has to receive enough attention. Besides the primary goal of getting some exercise, your dog will learn how to socialize with other dogs. The aspect of socialization is crucial for your dog’s behavior. Even aggressive dogs can become socialized after a while. Dog walkers must be careful, but when they do a good job, they actually help improve your dog’s character and behavior. Socialized dogs are easier to train, and that socialization can ease both the owner’s and the dog walker’s job. 3. Dog walkers engage themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally Work hours might be very long for dog walkers. Sometimes, they work more than 12 hours a day. That’s very hard mentally, physically, and emotionally. On top of that, some dogs have more energy than others, and you’ll have to run and exercise more with such dogs. After a dog walker establishes that connection and understands how difficult their job might be, dog walkers must make a great effort to give equal attention to all dogs, at all times. Like in any other business, dog walking is hard, and dog walkers must be dedicated continuously. Stressful and unpleasant situations are everyday issues, and dog walkers must work to adapt to it. If you’re looking for a patient dog walker in the Chicago area, reach out to Cruisin’ Canines today!