| There's a division among in-line skaters who own | | | | most skilled skaters should always wear protective |
| dogs. Some skating enthusiasts live for the times | | | | gear. Other road rules: Obey all traffic regulations and |
| when they can take their dog skating with them. | | | | always yield to pedestrians. When you're ready to |
| Others fear that trying to keep control of their dog | | | | pass a pedestrian, announce your next move by |
| and their skates will only result in chaos. | | | | saying "passing on your (left or right)." Your dog |
| Both groups of rollerbladers agree that only skilled | | | | must obey the rules of the road, as well. He should |
| skaters - with highly obedient dogs - should try to | | | | be trained to stop on command. |
| skate with their pet. They agree that skaters should | | | | When skating with your dog, use a leash that's |
| only bring dogs along during times when fewer | | | | slightly longer than normal. The leash should have |
| people are out, and only in areas without vehicles. | | | | enough slack to react if your dog veers away, but it |
| Those who think rollerblades and Rottweilers don't | | | | should not allow him to get far away from you. |
| mix know that both skaters and their dogs can be | | | | Consider a harness leash, which will avoid choking |
| injured when skating together if the dog makes any | | | | your dog in an emergency. |
| sudden moves. A dog who suddenly chases another | | | | Other common-sense considerations: Keep Rover |
| animal or object poses a great risk to himself, his | | | | hydrated, and practice rollerblading until you're both |
| owner, and nearby pedestrians. Skaters may trip on | | | | comfortable with the distance. Since dogs perspire |
| their leash, either falling on the pavement or on their | | | | through their foot pads, Rover can't stay cool if |
| dog. Unfortunately, someone's gonna get hurt either | | | | you're rollerblading on hot asphalt or concrete. |
| way. Even bystanders can be injured if they don't | | | | Off-road rollerblading is one solution to this problem. |
| realize a skater and a dog are coming toward them | | | | Soft grass or dirt is easier on dogs' feet and pads. |
| at 30 miles per hour. | | | | However, if you take Rover with you often, treat his |
| To keep you and your dog safe when rollerblading | | | | feet with a protective pad spray (such as Pad |
| together, keep your skill level in mind. Strongly taking | | | | Guard). |
| rollerblading lessons. Instructors are certified to teach | | | | Now that you both know the rules of the road, have |
| you and Rover to avoid and react to obstacles. | | | | a great time. Just watch out for those pesky |
| Remember to wear safety gear, including a helmet, | | | | pedestrians on our Champaign sidewalks and beyond! |
| elbow and knee pads, and wrist guards. Even the | | | | |