2 Highly Annoying Habits of Some Pet Owners

I love dogs. I grew up with ‘em in all sizes. So I can understand where some over-zealous pet owners are coming from. But these are two habits that push far past my boundary of being a good dog owner.

1. Riding a bike with your dog on a leash – I just saw a grand example of this during my road ride this morning: A woman on a hybrid with a rambunctious dog. Cars are whizzing past as the dog scuttles around the tires, nearly jerking the rider into traffic. Riding with a leashed dog is unsafe for the rider. It’s unsafe for other cyclist. Most importantly, it’s unsafe to the one who has no voice in the matter – namely, the dog. Pet owners have a responsibility to do the best for their pets. If your walking speed is too slow to exercise the dog, put down the donuts and learn to run with your dog. Or take it to the dog park.

2. Driving with your dog on your lap – Seriously, are some people really that co-dependent? It’s not like putting the dog in the back seat or in a pet carrier is going to kill it. Or you – seriously, you need to drive, not pet your dog. Really, maybe the dog would also like to relax instead of being your plaything constantly. My Akitas used to love the car – I’d open the window, they’d happily sniff the air for awhile, and then they’d collapse out asleep. Especially on long drives. Your pets need their “me time”, too.