For some dogs, off-leash activities are the only chance they may get to run and be free. However, being off-leash comes with its risks. At Fitdog, we want to make sure every activity is not only offering maximum fun but maximum safety as well.
Reinforcing Safety
Here are some standards we go by to keep dogs safe during off-leash activities:
Sociability assessment
All new dogs are assessed to determine eligibility for off-leash activities – including our Canyon Hikes. During the assessment, a Fitdog Sports Leader will assess your dog for temperament, sociability, and recall. This ensures that all of our dogs are friendly towards both dogs and humans, enjoy being in a pack setting, and are able to stick with the pack.
Reinforced training
Basic obedience is reinforced on each hike. Dogs exercise skills such as sit-stay, off, leave it and heel during every outing. Our Sports Leaders reinforce basic obedience training to keep dogs away from potential dangers such as mountain bikers, large groups of dogs, and other animals along the trail.
Keeping the pack together
Not all dogs are at the same level of fitness. Our Canyon Hikes are 4-6 miles and geared towards active dogs. Not all dogs can keep up, especially if they are just starting out. Just as with humans, dogs need to work up to their peak fitness level. For those dogs that need a slower pace, we offer Low Impact Hikes which are 45-minute hikes designed for dogs who need a slower pace and more breaks. Perfect for formerly active older pups, dogs recovering from sports injuries, puppies, and hiking rookies.
Safe dog: human ratio
Two sports team members lead every hike and only take up to a maximum of 12 dogs (6 dogs per person). Having a lower dog to leader ratio improves control and decreases the possibility of incidents.
Vetted Sports Leads
Our Sports Leaders are thoroughly trained and equipped with Musher’s Secret Wax, a Kurgo Pet First Aid Kit, paw and nose SPF, water bottles filled with water, Buddy Biscuit treats, and slip lead leashes. Additionally, we train all our Sports Leaders to pick up after our dogs and properly throw away all plastic bags out of respect for the environment and other trail patrons.
Fleet Management System
Our vans include a list of emergency vets closest to the trails they’re at. Additionally, all of our vans have Samsara. This allows us to track van location, driving activity and includes live footage inside the van.
Your dog’s health, safety, and happiness is our priority. We understand all dogs are different, and we’re here to help your dog live the life they deserve.
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