Chapter 4: Body Language & Safety
We strongly advise that Foster dogs should NOT go to dog parks, period.
Leash & Harness Basics
Use:
A secure, snug-fitting harness or martingale collar
4–6 ft leash (no retractables)
Double-clipping if the dog is fearful or a flight risk
Check the gear every time you leave the house
First Walks
Keep them short, calm, close to home, and free from dog-to-dog interactions. On-leash meetings are never recommended, even after the decompression period. They’re exploring a whole new world—move at their speed.
Dog Parks — Hard No
Risks: overstimulation, injury, exposure to disease, unpredictable interactions with dogs, and stress-related setbacks.
Instead: Quiet neighborhood walks, parallel walking with resident dog, other known and safe dogs, and structured socialization with trusted friends.
What to Do if a Loose Dog Approaches
Stay calm
Put yourself between the dogs
Use your leash to create space
Toss treats at the loose dog to redirect
Walk away swiftly
Avoid yelling or escalating