Featured in Summer 2009 Issue
Tails of the City
Downtown Los Angeles is an exciting place to live, and we can all co-exist peacefully if we only take the time to train our dogs and act responsibly.
Part of the draw to living in Downtown Los Angeles is that most of the buildings are pet friendly, and a large number of our pets are dogs. Having a dog in the city requires being a responsible owner, which includes: training, following leash laws, licensing, and vaccinations. Basic training is vital so your dog understands and follows the simple "sit," "down," and "stay" commands. Never yell at or strike your dog. Reward training is the most effective and best way to train your pet.
Life in a densely populated, inner city environment can cause even the most levelheaded dog to act in a way that suggests he has no manners. The mere fact that we must walk our dogs out on the city streets brings on its own set of unique challenges different from our suburban counterparts with fenced-in yards. This makes it very important that we help our dogs deal with the many obstacles that pop up, making him a neighbor that others do not mind having.
Keeping your dog safe and preventing your dog from being a nuisance while entering and leaving your building is very important. While waiting to enter an elevator with your dog, it is polite to stand back away from the doors when they open, allowing all to exit the elevator before you enter. Make your dog sit in a far corner of the elevator and never let him jump up on or bounce around others. Upon exiting the elevator with your dog, keeping him on a tight leash will help maintain control and prevent your dog from rushing out and possibly hurting someone. Even small dogs must understand elevator etiquette.
If your dog shows aggression or grows at others, take responsibility immediately and use a muzzle. Do not wait until your dog bites someone, resulting in your dog being destroyed and you being sued.
Puppies can't always make it outside and may have an "accident" in the elevator. Be sure to carry paper towels in case your puppy can't hold it any longer. When walking your dog outside, remember to "curb your dog," always making sure they do their business along the curb area, never against any building or near a doorway. In any situation, always clean up after your dog.
Nancy-Jean Carlson