It’s always dog season in Fairfax County! With more than 87,000 registered pups, many of us love our dogs (or at least like our neighbor’s dog). Of course, there are some people who may not care for excessive barking or dog poop that’s not picked up, too, so it’s important to be a responsible owner.
It’s in that spirit we present this simple list of 10 ways to be a responsible dog owner in our county.
1.) Identify Your Pet
Make sure your dog wears a collar with a current license and ID tag and has a microchip with up-to-date information.
2.) Vaccinate Your Dog
Proof of a valid rabies vaccine is required for licensing your dog in Fairfax County. Check with your vet to determine what other vaccines are most appropriate for your dog.
Our Animal Shelter hosts Vaccine and Microchip Clinics that allow residents to have their pets vaccinated and microchipped without the cost of a veterinary exam.
3.) Get Your Dog Licensed
All dogs four months and older must be licensed. Dog licenses are due annually by Jan. 31. The quickest and easiest way to apply or renew is online on the PetData website.
4.) Spay or Neuter Your Pet
Each year, three to four million homeless pets are euthanized in the United States. By spaying or neutering, you are doing your part to reduce pet overpopulation. Dogs that have this routine surgery tend to have longer, healthier lives and are less likely to roam.
5.) Enroll Your Dog in a Training or Obedience Class
Positive training will allow you to control your dog’s behavior safely and provides a terrific opportunity to enhance the bond you share with your dog. Training builds communication, understanding and mutual respect. Our Park Authority offers basic and advanced obedience classes. Register by visiting Parktakes Online.
6.) Keep Your Dog Physically Fit
Up to 45% of pets in the United States are overweight or obese. To keep your dog happy and healthy, make sure you exercise your dog every day.
Twice daily walks are enough for some dogs while others benefit from the additional exercise, play time and socialization they get from regular visits to a dog park. There are 11 designated fence-enclosed dog parks in the county.
7.) Obey Leash Laws
In Fairfax County, dogs are required to be on a leash at all times in public areas unless they’re in a designated off-leash area.
8.) Clean Up After Your Dog
Pick up dog waste and dispose of it in a public trash can or at home. Dog poop is not only unsightly, but it pollutes groundwater and is harmful to humans and wildlife.
Dog waste has bacteria like E. coli, and poop left on the grass or in the woods can make its way to storm drains. Storm drains lead to lakes or streams that ultimately lead to the Occoquan Reservoir and the Potomac Rivers, our drinking water supply.
Residents can contact our Stormwater Planning Division for concerns about dog waste. They can reach Stormwater Planning by emailing DPWESSTWStormwaterPollution@fairfaxcounty.gov, calling 703-324-5500 or by completing an online form.
If you notice excessive animal waste that is potentially related to animals being kept in harmful, unsanitary conditions, please contact Animal Protection.
9.) Protect Your Dog from the Elements
If the temperature outside is too cold or hot for you, it is also too cold or hot for your pet. Pets should be kept indoors and never leave your pet in a car when the outside temperature is above 70 degrees.
10.) Give Your Dog Companionship
Dogs left alone for long hours are more likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors including aggression and separation anxiety. If you are away from your home long hours, consider hiring a dog walker or getting a companion for your pet. The Animal Shelter has lots of loving pets waiting to meet you!
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