In lockdown, there's nothing like spending a little time with your best friend! In fact, pets are a welcome relief during what can be a hard time. They're always happy to see you and they love to be loved, which we all need right now. If your best friend is a furry dog, rather than a cuddly cat, you get the extra benefit of getting outside to walk your bestie each day.

With more people spending time at home, we've noticed that there are more dogs out and about. The local dog parks can be crowded and more dogs are walking along coastal walks and footpaths. We want everyone and every dog to be and feel safe when they're out and about. We spoke to Dr Renae Jackson, a vet from Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, who specialises in veterinary behaviour, and asked her to give us some tips for keeping our dogs and community safe.

1) Every person and every dog is unique
It's important to remember that not all dogs are outgoing, exuberant and energetic! And not all people love dogs, and that's Ok. Some dogs can be scared or nervous and may not want to meet another dog and some people are scared too - they may have had a bad experience with dogs or perhaps it's a young child without much experience with dogs.  "It's important to respect other people and dogs. Even if your dog is happy and friendly, letting it bound up to another dog or person without checking if they're Ok with it isn't the best way to go about it,"  says Dr Jackson. "Keeping your dog on a leash, so you're in control of where it goes and who it bounds up to, is the best way to keep your dog safe from other, more nervous dogs and also helps keep others safe."

2) Happy dogs are on a leash
Unless you're at an off-leash park, your dog should always be on a leash. "Even if your dog is well-trained, always follows you and isn't aggressive, keeping your dog on a leash will keep them safe from other dogs who might be more excitable," says Dr Jackson. "When it comes to dog behaviour, we talk about arousal - and the more aroused they are, the less predictable their behaviour can be," explains Dr Jackson. A dog's arousal level can be heightened by weather (wind or storms), dog parks that are busier than usual, crowded footpaths or any number of situations. Keeping your dog on a leash will ensure you have control over their behaviour, plus it will make them feel safe and secure if they're in a situation where their arousal is heightened.

3) Pay attention at off-leash parks
Even if you're at an off leash park, Dr Jackson recommends being sure to pay close attention. "Even when you're at an off-leash park, you need to stay alert. Chatting with friends and checking your phone means you might miss keeping an eye on your dog," she says. At off-leash parks, dogs can be overly excited and there can be run-ins, so always be ready and alert to protect your dog and other dogs. Also, during this time, please remember to social distance from other dog owners.

4) Go at  off-peak times
If your dog isn't loving the crowded parks and footpaths, think about visiting parks or going for walks during off-peak times. A sensitive dog may prefer a quieter time of day and it will keep you and others safe.

Looking after your dog and the wider community isn't hard if you obey the rules. Remember, as a dog owner, you're  responsible for your pet and the rules outlined by the Companion Animals Act, which you can read more about here.