Here are 3 easy steps to get your dog used to running next to your bicycle.

Before you start the exercise, decide on what side of the bicycle you want your dog to run. I like my dog on the right side of the bicycle. This way he is out of traffic when I ride down the road. Some folks like the dog on the left side of the bicycle, because this is the side they walk their dogs in a heel position. Either side is fine, the important thing is to remain consistent.

Choose an area that is safe to practice in the beginning. It is best to have no traffic and little distractions. I started in our driveway and at a nearby park. 

October is American Pit Bull Awareness month, which is a good thing, as the Pit Bull is one of the most misunderstood dog breeds in the world today. No other breed has dealt with this many misconceptions and breed specific legislation. On the other hand, there is a large percentage of dog lovers that are strong advocates for the breed.

The Pit Bull is actually not a breed, but four distinct breeds. The American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Bully. In addition, there are lots of mix breed dogs that are deemed pit bull mixes.

Developing a service/handler relationship with my German Shepherd Dog, Sailor has been a journey of self-discovery, discipline, patience, awareness, and challenge. Having her at my side has been life changing. It isn’t like having a fluffy pet as a companion everywhere I go, I can trust and rely on her. Sailor isn’t just my emotional support, she is my lifeline and the reason I can function at a higher level each day. Training Sailor with the support of a service dog organization has required a lot of me as a person with a disability, managing post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries and amnesia. We have had to learn who we are as a team because we are together for the same purpose in service to each other.

(Guest Blog Author Susie Guckin)