It's a well-established fact that walking your dog is beneficial for both of you. Why not help out your local community while strolling with your pooch?

Whether you strut your mutt or promenade your purebred, participating in a Dogwalk is a great opportunity for fun, exercise, socialization and charitable activity. The spring months are filled with dogwalk events to benefit local charities and humane societies -- just take a look at the Best Friends Community Calendar this month!

Great for socializing
Dogs require plenty of socialization, and participating in a Dogwalk offers an abundance of inter-species mingling for your pet (and you). Dogs can safely see, smell and hear others around them, while learning what is and isn't acceptable behavior. Walking in an event allows you endless opportunities for training reinforcement as well.

Best Friends trainers recommend keeping your pet on a short leash, and remaining a safe distance from other pets. Make sure your pet minds his manners around humans and canines alike. If there is a scuffle between two dogs, do not get in the middle. Pull back on your leash and make a loud noise (such as blowing a whistle) to distract the dogs.

Physical preparations
Both you and your dog should be in adequate physical shape to participate in a walk. Many Dogwalk events vary between 1-3 miles, but some are longer. Dogs should be at least 4-6 months old. Check to make sure there will be water stops along the way, but it's wise to bring along your own water as well for both you and your pet.

Most organized events will require proof of updated vaccinations for your pet. Be wary of those that don't. Do not bring a female dog in any stage of heat, or if pregnant. Of course, aggressive dogs, and dogs in questionable or poor health should stay at home. A charitable event will never turn down an unaccompanied walker.

You walk the dog, not the other way around
Your dog should be wearing a suitable, properly fitted collar with current ID tags. The dog's lead should be short (preferably not retractable), ideally with two feet or less between the two of you.

Keeping your dog completely under your control at all times is mandatory for events such as these. Best Friends trainers advocate keeping the dog at your knee or just behind you - never in front of you. Holding treats in your hand will also keep the dog close to your side. If the dog starts getting ahead of you, simply stop the walk. Reward him for remaining close to you and walking nicely. After a few times, he'll get the message.

Participating in an organized Dogwalk enhances proper behavior, builds skills, helps the community and is just plain fun! For information on Dogwalks in your community, visit www.petfinder.com.