Early experiences between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks are crucial to a puppy’s emotional development. Puppies need to meet dogs they have never met; people of all age and ethnicities; and environmental challenges, like automatic doors at shopping plazas, dust blowers, and the loud activity of an outdoor cafe.
Ideas for Places to Take Your Puppy:
* Non-restricted neighborhoods at popular walk times (7-9AM, 4:30-6:30PM) – visiting neighborhoods other than your own multiplies your puppy’s exposure to new people, places and things.
* PetSmart, Petco, Pet Supermarket, Woof Gang Bakery and other pet retailers.
* Local farmers’ markets (see www.localfoodsouthflorida.org for markets near us or in your area).
* Only designated outdoor areas of dining establishments – it’s the law (if table service is not offered, bring a friend to go inside and order). Information on dog friendly restaurants is available at www.dogfriendly.com, www.bringfido.com, and www.tripswithpets.com.
* Pedestrian (outdoor) malls such as CityPlace.
* Dog parks such as Lilac Park in Palm Beach Gardens (please note: some public parks other than dog parks do not allow dogs other than service dogs).
* Jupiter (Juno) Beach.
* Outdoor festivals such as CityPlace’s Free Family Fun Fest (Sunday 3/9/14)
* Peggy Adams Rescue League Barry Crown Walk for the Animals (Saturday 3/8/14), Downtown at the Gardens.
* South Florida Pet Expo (Saturday 3/15/14), South Florida Fairgrounds.
Tips:
• Use a fixed-length lead rather than a flexi-lead when socializing your dog
• Bring treats
• Bring a small dish for water if you will be out for an extended period of time
• Bring your own waste bags
• Attend to your puppy’s stress level. Some outdoor events or people (e.g., a large group of children) may overwhelm sensitive youngsters. Do not allow interactions with inappropriate dogs or people.
–Alison Tanner