After becoming a dog mom, there are things that I started feeling very strongly about. Lately, I have discovered my biggest pet peeves when it comes to other dog parents. Some people might not agree but if you are a responsible dog parent and feeling the same way, then rant with me!
Here are a few things that I just can't stand:
Leaving your dog in the car or tied up to a pole so you can get groceries - So here's the question I have. Do you also leave your babies in the car or tie them to a pole outside while you buy groceries? I really hope your answer is no. Dogs are part of your family. If you need to buy groceries, have someone watch your dog or leave them at home. They are much safer at home than in the car or tied up to a pole. Do you know how many horror stories with tragic endings I've read about? Here's one for you: Disabled Dog Found Dead After Going Missing When Car Stolen in Broward
Not cleaning up after your dog - Stepping on poop is not my main concern. It's important to know that when you don't clean up after your dog, you are putting other people and other dogs at risk of getting sick! Dog waste are full of disease causing bacteria and parasite. This is harmful to humans and spread disease to other dogs. Dog poop is full of E. coli, salmonella and is a common carrier of the following: Worms (several types), Parvovirus, Coronavirus, Giardiasis, Salmonellosis, Cryptosporidiosis, and Campybacteriosis. These bacteria and parasites can actually linger in the soil for years to come.
Letting your dog go off lead in non-designated areas - This one really pisses me off. When Gatsby was 7 months old, I took him to a state park in Long Island, NY. As we drove in, there was a huge sign that clearly states that "All pets must be leashed, at all times." And of course, as we were making our way through the park, we saw a German Shepherd playing Frisbee. My husband started to pivot to another direction, avoiding the off lead dog. Too late! That dog came running towards us as fast as he could. The dog's mom started frantically screaming and ran after her dog. Did the dog have recall? NO! The German Shepherd charged at Gatsby and snuffed him to the ground. Gatsby whimpered. The other dog parent finally caught up and grabbed her dog by the neck and tried to pull him away. I was furious and was throwing out F-bombs at her. This was not her dog's fault. It was hers! Luckily, we were all okay. This really could have been a tragic ending.
People who complain that their dogs destroy their homes while they are left alone - I mean, c'mon! Did you exercise your dog before you left him at home? Dogs destroy things because they are bored. They don't watch T.V. and play with mobile phones like we do. There's really nothing to do when they are home alone. Of course, they will destroy your home. You have to exercise them, get their energy out before you leave the house. This should be physical and mental exercises. If you tire the mind, you tire the body. Make the effort. Get up early. Make plans to make sure you meet your dog's needs first. If you can't do this, then take your dog to a dog daycare. I don't want to hear excuses like "I can't afford daycare." I'm sorry, but you should have allocated this expense when you knew your dog was going to be a part of your family. Do you not take your kids to daycare or hire babysitters while you are at work because you can't afford it?
People who walk their dogs while they are busy on their phones - I see this all the time! I see dogs eating stuff off the floor and cars are close to hitting them while they are at an intersection. If you want to get hit by a car, do it at your own time. Don't let your dog be a victim because of your stupidity. Be in the moment with your dog, not with your phone.
Strangers who touch my dog without asking - How would you feel if a stranger came up to your kid and pets them on their head? Is this even right?! If you don't do this to other children, why would you do this to my dog? Respect my dog and ask for consent!
Do you agree that these are annoying AF? What are your pet peeves after becoming a dog parent?
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