Taking your dog to Lovers Key Park is a great way to get some fresh air and bond with your pet. Today, we will provide dog owners with a few tips when bringing their dogs to Lovers Key Park.
4 Tips When Bringing Your Dog to Lovers Key Park
Lovers Key Park is the perfect place to bring your dog for some fun, exercise, and great outdoor adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Lovers Key, it’s a good idea to be prepared ahead of time to ensure you and your dog has the best experience. Keep in mind pets aren’t allowed on the beach at Lovers Key State Park. However, the Black Island Trail and other paths are the perfect way to explore this gorgeous park with your furry friend. Today we’re going to provide 4 essential tips when taking your dog to Lovers Key Park.
Find Shaded Areas
Taking your dog to Lovers Key Park can be exciting for you and your dog. But this also means that your dog will be out in the sun in sunny Southwest Florida.
If your dog will be out at the park for an extended period of time, it’s important to identify shaded areas for your dog ahead of time and be prepared to let your dog rest for naps in between.
An additional tip to combat the hot sun is to ensure your dog stays hydrated. Bringing them some water will aid in keeping your dog happy and comfortable.
Don’t Forget Sunscreen for Your Dog
That’s right. People aren’t the only ones that need to worry about sunscreen. Dogs need sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun as well as to maintain their health.
This is especially important for dogs with relatively lighter skin and fur and dogs with short hair.
When applying sunscreen, be sure to focus on the ears and nose as these areas are the most prone to sun damage. If you don’t have sunscreen, you can also put your dog in a sun shirt to help block UV rays.
By taking these proactive measures, you will minimize your dog’s risk for skin cancer.
Be Prepared to Pick Up Poop
Some owners forget to pick up their dog’s poop. However, it’s common courtesy to consider other dogs, owners, and the park by scooping up your dog’s poop.
With that said, be sure to bring disposable bags so that you can properly dispose of waste, and be sure to bring enough bags just in case.
Picking up waste doesn’t just follow the rules, but it’s also greatly appreciated by those around you.
Watch Out for Common Dangers on the Trail
There are certain dangers to watch out for while you’re on the trail with your dog. As a pet owner, you always want to ensure that you create the best environment for your dog.
With that said, trails naturally harbor dangers that can affect you and your dog. One danger to consider is parasites, which can be a common issue for your pet if not careful.
Avoid allowing your dog to drink from small puddles and streams, as these waters can contain parasites that lead to gastrointestinal illnesses. As stated previously, it’s important to bring your dog water to keep them hydrated.
Another thing to watch out for is ticks. Ticks dwell in wooded areas and should be avoided as much as possible. This is because ticks carry Lyme disease as well as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
In addition, it’s important to make yourself aware of poisonous plants that can be toxic to you and your dog. Always ensure that your dog is not chewing on something that can make them sick.
Lovers Key Park is a great way to spend time outdoors with your dog. If you’re planning your trip, follow these tips to create the best experience for you and your pet.
