Jul 2006 Issue of Dog Fancy

[CMDRTED]

I was reading through the July 2006 Issue of Dog Fancy. I noted that they had part of the issue dedicated to Water Fun with your dogs. I was hoping to see some Newfies (No such Luck ). What I did see kind of annoyed me though. On page 5 was a blurp by Editor Susan Chaney. The Section is titled: "Water Fun - and a Warning." in the lead in to water fun she states; "Even a dog who loves to swim runs the risk of exhaustion and possible drowning, so keep her on a leash and under your watchful eye at all times." I'm hoping she forgot to put something in there. I find it hard to believe she actually was telling peaders to let their dogs swim with a leash on!? I can understand the keeping a watch on your dog, but keep a leash on it while it's swimming? I wrote her an email, we'll see what she says.

 

[Ivoryudx]

Well yes, and no....I use leashes, and A LOT of long lines, for my dogs while training, swimming, etc. Many places it is the law to have them on leash at all times. It can be a useful way to help your dog if they get themselves in trouble swimming. Most owners have more control of their dogs on lead than off.

Yes, it can get dangerous if you are not careful, as they can get tangled in the line/lead, so the writer needs to be a little more specific of the situation she is discussing. If there are multiple dogs running lose, then absolutely no lead/line, due to being dangerous. If by themselves, or on a busy beach with a lot of people, then a lead is very important to be a good dog owner.

JMO,

 

[Prdmary]

Speaking of exhaustion and swimming...I noticed in the WRDX regs it speaks of being able to have a harness on the dog rather than just a collar.....possibly in case the dog got too tired during the test and needed help????

Oh...and when I am practicing Turner in the water with a long line....I try to keep a knife in my gear bag....just in case of an emergency....I could cut the line.

[ 08-29-2006, 09:09 PM: Message edited by: Prdmary ]

 

[Ivoryudx]

Yes, there is a option in WRDX for a harness, to get a hold of the dog in case of danger of any kind. While I don't want to get into a discussion on WRDX(in this thread), it requires a large amount of endurance. This is the only safety equipment allowed to help a dog in trouble.

 

[Sailorgirl]

Sue Lynn ... a knife is a great idea. Thanks for mentioning that.