I’m a vet – here’s why I’d never take my pet to a dog park and how it could lead to emergency visit to clinic
A VET advised pet owners that dog parks were potentially dangerous and could land their furry friends in the emergency clinic.
Despite parks being the most common place to let canines off the leash, animal care influencer Hunter Finn said they should be avoided.
The vet filmed a short video via his TikTok @Dr.hunterfinn to explain his rationale.
He said: “I am honestly not a big fan of dog parks.
“They are not bad in theory but I see the bad side of them – like infectious diseases, bites, parasites… you name it.”
Because dog parks are frequented by a large number of animals, it increased the risk of pets falling victim to health-related issues.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, several infectious diseases can be transmitted by viruses, fungi, parasites and bacteria in a park or other outdoor settings.
Hunter urged owners to exercise their animals in different locations.
He said: “They are good in theory because I want your dog to have good enrichment but there are better places.”
The Texas vet is known by his 2.2million followers for posting sound animal care advice online.
He recently issued an urgent warning over little-known signs that indicated your dog needed medical attention.
Another vet also raised the alarm about five foods you should never give your pet as some could be lethal.