How to Be Like a California Dog Owner

There's something about a California dog owner (or for the more PC: pet guardian, pet caretaker, pet parent)--something that makes them a bit more conscientious and pet aware. Now, don't get me wrong--there are plenty of wonderful dog owners in other places and some not-so-wonderful ones in California--but allow me to generalize and offer some tips on how to behave like a California dog owner.

Instructions

1. Do not let your dog roam the neighborhood without a leash. Sadly, when I travel away from California I notice a big increase in the number of unleashed and stray dogs walking around. And again, there are always individuals and areas that are exceptions, but considering the population, Californians do a very good job of keeping loose dogs off the streets.

2. Don't forget to clean up after your best friend when you're on a stroll or at a public place. Leaving dog waste on the ground will elicit some angry glares in California. No offense New Jersey, Texas or Georgia, but California pet owners are team players-and they even pick up what other dog owners miss. At a California dog park, the smell most likely wafting through the air--will be body oil.

3. Never leave your dog in a hot car or chain your dog for prolonged periods. Laws were passed in California (thanks to concerned citizens, a great senator and Governor Schwarzenegger) that limit chaining to three hours and make it a crime to leave a dog in an enclosed vehicle under dangerous conditions.

4. Take your dog with you when you go out for a cup of coffee or to an outdoor event. Dog-friendly patios abound in the Golden State, and rarely is there an outdoor event without a canine contingent. Californians seem to be aware that dogs are social animals that enjoy public outings.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't ever drive with your dog in the bed of a pickup truck. Aside from the obvious risk of falling out, they could also burn their paws on the hot metal. This is something you almost never see in California, especially considering that it's illegal.

• Avoid leaving your dog tied up in a public place, even if you are just stopping into a store briefly. Dogs can easily get stolen or harmed this way. There are unscrupulous people out there who might be tempted to steal your dog for various reasons including the unthinkable such as selling to a lab for experiments. Even Californians are guilty of leaving their dogs tied up outside from time to time, but since it's not that common an occurrence, people take notice when they do.