Tips for walking with your dog in winter

This winter season has seen some major "highs and lows". Some days feel more like Spring than Winter, with flowers blooming, birds singing and children playing. Your dog wants to get out and enjoy the warm weather too, so now is the time to do some walking with your dog while you still can. Here are a few tips you can use when walking with your dog on warm Winter days:

1) Plan ahead. Make sure you check the weather report for the day. While the weather may be sunny and bright right now, it can quickly change to dark and chilly. Knowing what to expect can make a short walk or even a longer walk with your dog more worry-free.

2) Bring plenty of water to drink for both you and your dog. Walking, even light walking, expends energy, so keep cool and refreshed with fresh, clean water.

3) Wear the proper clothing. Again, because Winter weather can be tricky, you will want to make sure you wear clothing that is light, yet warm. If it's simply too hot to wear a jacket, bring one with you just in case. Also, if your dog is of a short-haired breed, make sure you bring a sweater or jacket for him as well.

4) Bring a cell phone, first-aide kit and flashlight. These are essentials no matter what the weather and you want to be prepared for any type of emergency. Make sure that your cell phone is charged up and that the flashlight has fresh batteries. Having an umbrella is also a good idea. Bull Dog Bags will make carrying things like these much more easy.

5) Let someone know where you're going and when you plan to be back. Things happen and you always want to make sure someone knows where you are or should be.

6) Stretch! Stretch out those Winter muscles, on you and your dog. Loosen up a bit before a walk. You will feel much more comfortable.

Now, you and your dog go and enjoy yourself. Who knows, tomorrow we may be up to our elbows in snow!