Living in high rises has become more and more popular in Atlanta. Dog owners in particular are faced with unique challenges of having to share small spaces with other people and other dogs. Even the friendliest, most socialized dogs have trouble adjusting to the lifestyle. Being a good neighbor and responsible pet owner is essential to living a happy life in a high rise.
As the owner of Laughing Pets Atlanta, a premium dog walking and pet sitting company, I’ve created for our caregivers to keep client dogs happy, healthy and safe in environments like The Charles. These protocols can be applied by all dog owners to enhance the experience of high rise dwelling for themselves, their dogs and their neighbors.
Safe greetings
Not everyone who lives in a building that allows pets enjoys dogs (shocking, I know!) Some people are afraid of dogs, some have allergies and some just don’t want to be approached by a dog they don’t know. When walking your dog down the halls, have your dog properly leashed, close to you and in your control. Give people and other dogs the space to pass you.
Ask before approaching other dogs. Whether your dog is with you or you’re alone, it’s respectful and courteous to ask before approaching someone else’s dog. It’s also a matter of safety. Not every dog will want to engage with other people or other dogs. Rushing over to say hello could lead to a bad encounter ranging from a doggy screaming match to a fight resulting in injury to the dogs or the humans.
Elevator etiquette
Riding an elevator can be an uncomfortable experience for your dog or someone else’s dog, but it can also be uncomfortable for other riders. It’s always a good idea to ask the person in the elevator if you can join them. You never know if someone is allergic or might be frightened of dogs and they will be very appreciative to be given the option to ride alone.
When waiting for an elevator, stand far enough away from the doors so when they open, people can easily exit the elevator without having to get too close to your dog. This is a safety issue as well as a courtesy. Though your dog may be very friendly, there’s always the chance that something will scare him or make him uncomfortable enough to growl or bite someone. Additionally, there could be a rider who has a dog who is not comfortable with other dogs, so you’d want to give enough space for them to exit without having to come too close.
While on the elevator with your dog, stand at the back so when the doors open, you will be at a safe distance from any person or dog who wants to enter. If your dog is uncomfortable with strangers or new dogs, don’t be afraid to ask that person to wait for another elevator… “Would you mind waiting for the next one? My dog is afraid of other dogs and I wouldn’t want to put any of us in danger.” Most people will understand.
Leash safety
Unless in the fenced dog run, your dog should be leashed at all times. It’s best to use a standard, fixed length leash rather than a retractable leash, especially when you live in a high rise.
If you use a retractable, it’s important to lock it so your dog will be at your side until you exit the building. Oftentimes owners don’t lock them and when they aren’t paying attention, their dogs wander too far away which can cause a variety of problems. Whether on the elevator or in the hallway, a dog walking towards one who is not comfortable being approached by a strange dog can lead to a fight or a full-on dog attack. It’s nearly impossible to prevent or control the situation when one of the dogs is on a retractable leash.
Poop Pick Up
It goes without saying you should always pick up your dog’s poop. Not only is poop unsightly and unpleasant to see or step in (to say the least,) it also carries disease and bacteria that is harmful to humans and other pets.
Don’t approach a person while they are picking it up. The reality is that the person’s attention is on the task at hand rather than environment around them. It’s definitely not a good time to say hello!
Though your intentions may be good, you don’t know how the dog you will react. The person is bent over with one hand holding the dog and the other trying to clean which leaves them vulnerable, distracted and not in a good position to maintain control their dog. Handling a dog while picking up poop can be tricky, even with the most well-behaved, well-trained dog so wait until it’s been picked up and disposed of.
Training helps
Living in a high rise can be a big adjustment for some dogs. If your dog is having difficulty, a professional, positive reinforcement dog trainer can be very helpful. “Counter-conditioning” techniques are fun and effective, no matter the age of your dog. Should you find yourself in need of a trainer, please see my recommendations at https://laughingpetsatlanta.com/resources-dog-training/
Owning a dog is rewarding and beneficial to you, to others and to your pet. While living in a high rise in an urban area presents some challenges, you and your pet can have a wonderful, fun-filled life together. Dogs bring so much into our lives, it is only fair that we reciprocate by doing what’s needed to keep them safe, happy and healthy!
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