Friends, family, neighbors, random people on the internet….let’s have a quick heart to heart about our beloved furry companions. Ive debated about writing a blog about this but here we go lol. As much as dogs (and other pets) bring joy to our lives, they also bring a level of responsibility that can’t be ignored. This message is for all pet owners out there. Please keep your dogs on a leash or put them in a room/cage when visitors arrive. Seriously….
Now, don’t get me wrong. I love dogs. Growing up, my family had a parade of furry friends, and they were wonderful. But let me tell you, as a firefighter and someone who’s been chased one too many times, not every encounter with a dog feels like a warm hug. Sometimes it feels like a sprint for survival.
We need to address the universal pet owner excuse…. “Oh, don’t worry, they don’t bite!” Let’s pause here. Your dog might not bite YOU, but how does the dog feel about strangers in uniform, carrying equipment, or smelling like smoke from the last call? Spoiler alert, probably not great.
And hey, I get it. Dogs are like family. They’re cute, they’re loyal, and they’re a great source of happiness. But not everyone shares your enthusiasm when they’re being jumped on, licked, or heaven forbid chased down the street because someone “let the dog out.” lol
Let’s take a moment to consider the visitor’s perspective. When someone comes to your house, whether it’s a friend, a delivery driver, or a first responder, you can’t assume they’re cool with dogs. Some people have allergies, others have fears, and some (like me) just don’t want to risk a face full of slobber after a long day.
Now, I don’t mean to sound like a grouch. This is about safety and courtesy. Imagine showing up to an medical emergency or fire call, only to hear, “Oh, she’s friendly, just come on in!” You think I’m going to take your word for it when your 70 pound Labrador is doing laps in the yard, barking like they’ve discovered Bigfoot? Not today! Not TODAY!
Here’s the deal, Responsible pet ownership isn’t optional…it’s necessary. A leash or a designated room or a cage isn’t just a courtesy, it’s a safety measure for everyone involved. Your dog won’t mind being tucked away for a few minutes, and your visitors (and emergency responders) will thank you for it.
To wrap this up on a lighter note, I’m not asking you to keep your pets locked away forever. Just have a plan. Ask your guests if they’re comfortable with your dog before releasing the hounds. Teach your furry friends some manners and respect personal space…after all, you wouldn’t greet guests by jumping on them or sniffing their pants, would you?
So let’s all do our part. Keep your dogs leashed, your visitors happy, and your local firefighters out of a footrace with your four legged sprinter. Together, we can make the world a safer and more pet friendly place!
