Rollerblading With a Dog
In-line skating with your furry four-legged friend will make for a fun-filled romp for both of you. The dog will enjoy getting fresh air and exercise alongside its human companion. In addition to providing a workout, in-line skating can become a special time for you and your dog, allowing both of you to work as a team and building trust. As with any activity with your dog, use precautions to protect yourself and your pet from any dangers you may encounter.
Things You'll Need
- Retractable leash
- Collar
- Body harness for dogs
- Helmet
- Knee pads
- Elbow pads
- Wrist guards
Instructions
-
-
1
Ensure that your dog has adequate training and will obey your commands while in-line skating. The sport allows you to move at high speeds, which gives the sport an aspect of risk when you decide to skate on your own. Adding your dog into the mix creates risks for you, your pet and anyone near you while in-line skating. Be sure that you feel confident that the dog will listen to your commands. The Sit Means Sit website recommends that you acclimate your dog to in-line skating by starting with jogging together.
-
2
Purchase safety equipment and learn how to use it effectively. Go to your local sporting goods store, or department store with a sports department, to buy the appropriate safety equipment for you, which includes a helmet, knee and elbow pads and wrist guards. Acquire a retractable leash and a compatible collar or body harness to attach the leash to your dog. Learn how to loosen and retract the leash quickly so you can react at a moment's notice on the road or path.
-
-
3
Become a confident and responsible in-line skater on your own. Practice by yourself in safe areas before you involve your dog. Learn safety precautions and be sure you know how to maneuver, stop and react quickly.
-
4
Select routes, paths and consider times of day that will be safe for both of you. Look for paths with fewer pedestrians or cars. When you practice your jogging sessions with your dog, take mental notes of prime areas and times. Obey the rules of the road or path on which you choose to take your dog when in-line skating. Be aware of others using the path and be respectful and courteous by issuing warnings when approaching them from behind by saying, "On your left" or "Rollerblader behind you."
-
5
Practice together with short trips at first. Be gentle with your dog and go slowly to help the animal learn this new activity. You can work out the initial bugs such as its excitement over the new activity, moving too quickly and being distracted by other dogs, animals, small children, fellow skaters and bicyclists. You can warn and praise, as necessary, to reinforce the behavior that you expect during this behavior.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Bring enough water for you and your dog.
Follow the S.L.A.P. guidelines: Skate smart, legal, alert and polite, according to PetPlace.com.
Seriously consider whether you and your dog have the proper skills and the right temperament for an activity that can be dangerous.
Be aware that pedestrians on the path may be startled and not know what to do if you and your dog approach. Be prepared to make snap decisions and adjustments in this case.
Don't keep your dog out too long if the temperature is hot. Because your dog perspires through its paws, it won't be able to cool down, according to PetPlace.com.
References
- Photo Credit David De Lossy/Photodisc/Getty Images
