HoundBound

Safety Guidelines

Safety is our top priority at HoundBound. Follow these guidelines to ensure every run is safe for you and your four-legged running partner.

Before You Run

Check the Weather

Avoid running in extreme heat (above 85°F/30°C) or cold. Hot pavement can burn paw pads—if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws.

Know the Dog

Review the dog's profile for any health conditions, behavioral notes, or special requirements. Ask the owner about recent vet visits or concerns.

Check Equipment

Ensure the leash, collar, and harness are secure and in good condition. Carry poop bags, your phone, and ID.

Plan Your Route

Choose well-lit, familiar routes. Avoid high-traffic areas. Share your route with the owner.

During the Run

Watch for Warning Signs

  • • Excessive panting or drooling
  • • Lagging behind or refusing to move
  • • Limping or favoring a leg
  • • Disorientation or stumbling
  • • Bright red tongue or gums

Stop immediately if you notice any of these signs.

Best Practices

  • • Take water breaks every 15-20 minutes
  • • Run on grass or trails when possible
  • • Keep the dog on your left, away from traffic
  • • Maintain situational awareness
  • • Give other dogs plenty of space

Encountering Other Dogs

  • 1Cross the street or change direction if you see an unleashed dog
  • 2Don't allow greetings with unknown dogs while running
  • 3If approached by an aggressive dog, stay calm, don't run, and put yourself between the dogs
  • 4Report any incidents to the owner immediately

Emergency Procedures

If an Emergency Occurs:

  1. 1Stop running immediately and assess the situation
  2. 2Contact the owner right away
  3. 3For serious injuries, go to the nearest emergency vet (the owner should have this info in the app)
  4. 4Document what happened for insurance purposes

Personal Safety

  • •Run during daylight hours when possible
  • •Wear reflective gear for early morning or evening runs
  • •Keep your phone charged and accessible
  • •Tell someone your planned route and expected return time
  • •Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, end the run

Report Safety Concerns

If you experience any safety issues, please let us know immediately.

Contact Safety Team