Walks

DOGS DRIVING YOU NUTS? HERE’S HOW TO EXERCISE THEM!

LOW COMMITMENT

• Take them on a leashed walk around the residential neighborhood (Central St., Grove St., etc.). Stick to the sidewalks and move away from the train station, 5 corners, etc. If Tina is feeling extra spunky, you can cross the little bridge at the end of Central St. and heads uphill/turns into Drury.

  • Leashes are hanging in closet by front door. (If you take them out after dark, there’s a head lamp hanging in there too.)

  • Poop bags are on the ledge by the door.

• A morning walk will get them off your case for a bit, but they may need more exercise later.

MEDIUM COMMITMENT

• To get Ellen (the higher-energy dog) more exercise, put Tina in the living room alone.

  • Don’t leave any food out, make sure you close all interior doors, etc.

• Take Ellen on her own, longer leashed walk.

HIGHER COMMITMENT

• Take them to the Essex Dog Park. Things to look out for:

• Tina sometimes eats poop, so keep an eye on her.

• Ellen has a high prey drive with small/young/not yet spayed/neutered dogs, especially when there’s a chase. I recommend if any puppies come in or weird aggression happens between any dogs, you bring Tina & Ellen into the small park and/or leave.

A few more tips:

• Keep treats in your pocket! If you say Ellen’s name/get her to look at you, then hold out your empty palm and say “Touch!” she should run and “boop” your palm with her nose. This is good for recall (at the dog park) and getting her attention on the leash (when she’s pulling). When she “boops” you, give one to her, and one to Tina.

• Do NOT give them treats at the park if there are other dogs close. Tina will snap at the other dogs if there are treats involved.

CAR STUFF

• Tina will need to be lifted into the backseat. Click the photo below on how to do that.