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Quick Summary
- Keep a close eye on your dog in public spaces to ensure their safety.
- Be considerate of other people and their potential concerns or discomfort around dogs.
- Train and socialize your dog to minimize anxiety and ensure good behavior in different environments.
If you often bring your dog when you travel or run errands, you’ll encounter elevators, escalators, and revolving doors. These fixtures can pose safety hazards for your four-legged friend. To ensure your dog’s safety, it’s important to be aware of these risks and follow essential safety tips. Read on for important dog safety tips.
Humans may not think twice about using elevators, escalators, and revolving doors, but to dogs, these are utterly unnatural objects, and therefore not very intuitive to navigate. Even some of their more mundane features can give some dogs a fright. I’ve had a dog that gave a little jolt as soon as she heard the ding that goes off when an elevator door opens. And if you ask me, they’re somewhat right to be afraid — these things were designed for humans after all. All kinds of accidents can arise from using these facilities with your dog, so keep in mind these dog safety tips for elevators, escalators, and revolving doors to make sure that you don’t get into any when you’re out and about with your beloved pet.
Ensuring Elevator Safety for Your Dog
When it comes to riding an elevator with your dog, it’s important to be mindful of certain precautions to keep your dog safe. Here are some helpful tips to follow:
- Keep a close eye on your dog when approaching and entering elevators. Ensure that they are securely on a leash and under your control. Dogs may be curious and prone to darting out, so make sure they are safely positioned before the elevator doors open.
- Be considerate of other passengers on the elevator, especially if they aren’t exactly dog lovers or may have concerns about dogs. Other dogs may also be a concern, as they might not like being put in a cramped space with your dog.
One of the most important aspects of dog elevator etiquette is to keep your dog close to you and avoid allowing them to jump on or approach others without their consent. - If you have a large dog, try to choose an elevator that is either empty or has only a few people inside. This will help avoid any discomfort or potential accidents caused by limited space.
- During the elevator ride, maintain a calm and composed demeanor, as dogs can sense your emotions. Use positive reinforcement and offer treats to reward your dog for their good behavior during the elevator ride.
- Take a moment to locate the emergency buttons inside the elevator. Knowing their placement can be crucial in case you need to stop the elevator or open the doors quickly.
- If your dog is alone in the elevator and their leash becomes caught between the closing doors, immediately press the call button for assistance. When the elevator is already in motion, it’s crucial to let go of the leash to avoid any further entanglement or injury.
- If your dog is in danger of choking because of a caught leash, it’s essential to act swiftly. Release the dog from its collar as quickly as possible to prevent any potential harm.
- If your dog tends to get excitable or bark inside the elevator, it’s advisable to keep them on a short leash. This will help maintain control and prevent any disturbances to fellow passengers.
It’s also a good idea to always ensure that your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag displaying your contact information. In case they happen to wander off or get lost, this will greatly assist in their safe return.
In the event of an emergency, it’s important to remain calm and composed. Contact the service number of the elevator’s maintenance company and seek assistance. Help will be on the way to resolve the situation safely.
Safe Escalator Riding Tips for Dogs
When it comes to riding escalators with your dog, it’s important to prioritize their safety. Unless you can carry your furry friend, it’s advisable to opt for the stairs or an elevator instead of using the escalator. Many pet owners may not be aware of the potential dangers that escalators and moving walkways pose to pets. Pets are often unaware that they need to lift their feet at the top to avoid being trapped by the comb-like structures.
According to the MSPCA-Angell, veterinarians encounter an average of two to three dogs each year with mangled paws due to escalator accidents. In some cases, emergency surgery becomes necessary to treat their injuries. One such incident occurred in 2012 when a Pomeranian mix named Mace had a close call on an escalator at a Boston subway station. Mace’s paw got caught in the combs while chasing his owner’s niece up the steps, resulting in the loss of two toes. These incidents highlight the seriousness of the issue and emphasize the need for pet owners to be aware of the dangers escalators pose to their beloved companions.
Dr. Ashley Davis, one of the veterinarians who treated Mace, emphasizes the importance of understanding that dogs have no sense of the danger they face when stepping onto an escalator. She encourages pet owners to be cautious and raise awareness about this potential hazard [2]. Celebrities like Ryan Gosling have also demonstrated their understanding of these risks by hand-carrying their dogs on escalators, taking all the necessary precautions to keep them safe.
If you find yourself in a situation where you must ride an escalator with your dog and carrying them is not an option, Dr. Jeannine Berger, a veterinarian, recommends providing your dog with booties to wear. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the booties fit snugly without any excessive material that could potentially get caught in the moving escalator parts. This additional layer of protection can help prevent their paws from coming into direct contact with the comb-like structures.
Navigating Revolving Doors with Your Dog
When it comes to using revolving doors with your canine companion, prioritizing their safety is of utmost importance. If your dog is small enough, it’s best to carry them through the revolving door. However, if your dog is too large to be carried, it is advisable to avoid using revolving doors altogether. When walking past a revolving door, ensure that your dog remains by your side on a short leash, and hold on tightly.
To ensure the safety of your dog when using revolving doors, consider the following tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Always remain vigilant and keep a close eye on your dog. Prevent them from running ahead or lagging behind, as both scenarios could result in them getting caught in the door.
- Proper collar or harness: It’s essential for your dog to wear a collar or harness that fits securely. This prevents the possibility of their collar getting caught in the door. If necessary, consider using a harness instead of a collar for added security.
- Enter and exit together: When entering or exiting a revolving door, always go through with your dog. Avoid letting them roam around on their own, as they could easily become lost or trapped.
- Stay calm in emergencies: If, unfortunately, your dog does get stuck in a revolving door, it’s crucial to remain calm. Refrain from attempting to pull them out yourself, as this can potentially cause injury. Instead, seek immediate assistance from a security guard or any available employee to ensure a safe and proper rescue.
By following these simple yet essential tips, you can ensure the well-being of your furry friend when navigating revolving doors.
Recommended Reading: How to keep dogs safe from heat stroke
The Bottom Line
As devoted pet owners, we cherish the time we spend with our beloved dogs. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards, such as the choking risk associated with using elevators with dogs. Even for those who frequently use elevators, it’s important to recognize the potential dangers and take necessary precautions.
In addition to the general safety tips mentioned earlier, following specific guidelines and recommendations will not only save you time and worry but also ensure the safety of your furry friend. By prioritizing your dog’s well-being, you can make the most of your time together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the etiquette for dogs in elevators?
When traveling in an elevator with your dog, it’s important to follow proper etiquette. Keep your dog on their leash and positioned by your side to prevent them from approaching the doors. Even if the greetings are friendly, it’s best to discourage jumping. Additionally, consider using cargo elevators and exits or crowded hallways, depending on the building’s laws and conditions.
How do I keep my dog calm in the elevator?
Helping your dog remain calm in elevators is essential for their comfort and safety. Start by familiarizing your dog with elevators gradually. Use positive reinforcement techniques by bringing treats, toys, and snacks whenever you approach elevators. Reward and praise your dog for their calm behavior when they approach the elevator doors.
