Pokemon go for dogs: 7 tips for dog owners who want to get in on the craze

If you have not yet heard about Pokémon Go, I would think you were living under a rock. Many people are praising the fitness benefits of playing this game. People are using it to start a fitness routine as well as get in those last needed steps for their day.

Unfortunately, we are also hearing a lot of horror stories from playing. People have been robbed, injured and one player even found a dead body. Like any type of exercise, if you take the proper precautions this game can be a lot of fun for you and your dog.

Pokémon Go provides the motivation that some people need to get up off the couch. It also offers a new way for active folks to get out and explore their community. If you’re not familiar with the game, it’s a fairly simple concept.

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Pokémon are small creatures that can be trapped and trained. Pokemon Go is an app for Android and iOS that uses your phone’s GPS location and displays available Pokémon near you. If you’re able to catch one, you can keep it.

In order for your Pokémon eggs to hatch, you need to log a certain number of kilometers. There is just one catch – the game also uses your phone’s GPS to monitor how fast you are traveling. if you’re traveling faster than walking speed (for example, if you’re riding a bicycle or driving a car), it won’t log the distance.

Pokemon Go For Dogs: 7 Tips For Dog Owners Who Want to Get In On the Craze

Here are the things you need to be thinking about before you and your four-legged companion go out to catch some Pokémon:

1. Safety

The safety of you and your dog should be the first consideration. No game is worth the life and health of you or your pooch. Check the weather before you go out. You don’t want to bring your dog out into temperatures he may not be able to take. You also need to check if any storms are expected during the time frame you will be out.

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Make sure you are choosing streets that are safe for you and your pet. Low traffic streets are streets with clearly marked pedestrian crossings are best. Make sure you are also choosing streets in the safest parts of town.

2. Attention

Some people are so absorbed in the game that they are not paying attention to their surroundings. There have been players having to be rescued from falling off of cliffs or walking into traffic. Stay focused on where you are and where you are going so that you don’t lead your dog into a dangerous situation.

3. Crowds

If your dog is not properly socialized, large crowds can lead to dangerous behavior. Uncertainty can lead to aggressive behavior or flight attempts. Stay in areas where you know your dog will feel confident and secure.

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