A vet has shared the five everyday things he would never do with his own dog, warning pet owners about common but dangerous habits that could put their pets at risk.
Five habits to avoid
Vet Marcus, known as @thefriendlyvet on social media, outlined the habits in a TikTok video. He said he would never take his dog, Charlie, to a designated dog park, explaining that dog parks concentrate many unfamiliar dogs and people in a small space, raising risks compared to a normal walk.
He noted that over-arousal, resource guarding (such as balls, sticks, or water), crowding at gates, and mismatched play styles or sizes can quickly turn play into a fight. Unpredictable owners and poor supervision can also be a recipe for disaster. He advised doing research and going during off-peak times to reduce risks if considering a visit.
Safer alternatives and feeding advice
Marcus also said he would never give his dog bones or bully sticks to chew, as they can splinter, cause choking, break teeth, or lead to internal injury or blockages if swallowed, potentially resulting in costly vet bills. He recommended dental sticks as a safer alternative.
He advised against walking a dog off lead, even if well trained, because training does not remove sudden triggers, environmental risks, or the unpredictability of other people or animals. He stressed he would never discontinue long-term medications, preventatives, or vaccines, noting they are prescribed for good reason. He also said he would never free feed his dog, as controlled mealtimes make it easier to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and allow him to spot any drop in appetite, which could be a huge underlying marker that something is wrong.
