I teach a dog obedience class called A Walk in The Park. One of the weeks we always walk a portion of the . The trail provides so many teaching opportunities for a dog and handler. We teach the dogs to sit quietly when being passed by a bicycle or a stroller. We also teach them to stop and sit if a jogger is
approaching.
It is a natural instinct for most dogs to chase anything on wheels or a person that is running. They have to be taught that chasing is not a polite way to interact in the human pack.
A handler can see people coming toward them on the trail. They can move to the side and put their dog into a sit position until the person or bicycle is past. Unfortunately not everyone on the trail seems to understand that if they are coming up behind another person or a person and their dog that they should announce their presence. That will give the unsuspecting fellow trail user a chance to move out of the way and control their dog.
Find out what's happening in Gig Harborfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Dog walkers can keep their dogs under control and pick up after them. Cyclists and joggers can slow down and announce their presence when coming from behind.
Cushman trail was built so that all community members can enjoy exercise and fresh air. With a little courtesy, cyclists, runners, walkers, children and dog walkers can safely coexist.