Restrictions Bring a Change in Walking Dynamics
As many of you already know, in a few weeks (from March 1st utnil August 31st), we will be met with restrictions of where we can walk dogs off lead (due to nesting birds etc).
Although this is in place to protect wildlife and the public during high season, it does bring its challenges as follows:
Less variety of walking areas as we will not be allowed off lead at Upton Heath, Canford Heath, Hamworthy Common, Wareham Forest and Delph woods. There are also fewer dog friendly beaches.
The places where we will be able to walk are smaller and busier (especially in the holidays), creating more distractions (such as more dogs, people and picnics).
Whats does this mean for Harbour Tails Walks for the next 5 months?
Walks will still be stimulating and fun, but destinations will be less varied.
Walks might be less “big” , not time wise, but distance wise, as we will have a lot of exteriour distractions to dodge and avoid.
There might be more ‘on lead’ time depending on your dog’s behaviour and how busy / distracting the environment is for them.
What can you do to help your dog be able to have more ‘off lead time’ on Harbour Tails Walks?
Take treats on all your walks and practice, practice, practice recall with your dogs. ALWAYS reward with high value food or game with toy.
Reward your dogs for staying close by and checking in with you.
Practice practice practice your dog’s ‘leave it’ and ‘drop it’ cues in a variety of environemnts.
Ask me for any tips on the above should you need. Always happy to help.
Where Will We Walk?
Lake Pier Beach
Hamworthy Park
Upton Country Park
Frenches Farm Fields
Turlin Moor Rec
Baiter Park
Broadstone Rec
Sherborne Open Space