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It may be getting colder and wetter, but pet owners still need to walk their dogs, and there's some information they need to know before venturing outside. The Pet Health Club, that shares all sorts of vet-approved advice, recently revealed there's something vital you need to know if you walk your dog during a certain time of day. While it may be a popular time of day to venture out due to convenience, there are some things you need to be aware of before doing so. It could lead to making a big difference to the wellbeing and safety of your animals , especially during autumn and winter. Not to mention, there's a specific amount of time you should be walking your dog each day too. A vet recently gave their verdict as to how much exercise they should be getting daily. If you're someone who walks your dog in the dark, there are a few rules you need to follow. Here's all you need to know as the weather becomes gloomier. To begin, it was advised people stick to familiar paths, and ensure the area is well-lit. You should always wear reflective clothing and add a reflective collar to your dog, as this will ensure you're seen by drivers. It was also noted it's particularly important to keep them on a lead during the dark, especially when visibility is low. This will help to keep your dog under control. However, the next piece of advice is crucial, and it's something that not all dog owners may be aware of. The Pet Health Club said: "Even if your dog is usually good off-lead, make sure their recall is reliable. "The dark can be distracting and disorientating for them." It added: "Check their microchip details. If your dog does go missing, up-to-date microchip information can help you be reunited faster." Little you may know, reliable dog recall is extremely important, but it's even more critical when walking in the dark. This is because darkness significantly increases the risks associated with a dog running off, as visibility is compromised for both you and others. It's easy for the dog to become lost or encounter unforeseen dangers more easily when it's dark. This is why it's so important. The biggest concern is road safety. Drivers have reduced visibility when it's dark, and they find it more difficult to recognise colour. If your dog runs into a road, a driver will have very little time to see and react, even if the dog is dressed in reflective gear. Not to mention, your dog could vanish from sight in seconds, which makes it hard to locate them if they ignore your calls. A solid recall allows you to regain control and keep them close. Dogs can also get easily frightened by sudden noises or unexpected shapes emerging from the dark. If they panic and run, a reliable recall is the only way you can safely get them to return. As well as this, an off-leash dog can also startle other walkers and their dogs. You need a good recall to enable your dog to interact peacefully and avoid potential conflicts. Together with following the tips provided, it's also wise to carry a torch when walking with your dog in the dark. This will allow you to spot any potential hazards.
