Man Condemned For Using Laser Pointer At Dog Park, Potentially Harming All Of The Dogs There

Laser pointers can be harmful to dogs, causing something called "laser pointer syndrome".

Senad

• Published in Interesting
• March 18, 2023

Dogs are a man's best friend, and for many dog owners, taking their furry companions to the park is one of the highlights of their day. It's an opportunity for them to socialize with other dogs and their owners while getting some exercise in the great outdoors.

But what happens when your beloved dog is no longer interested in playing with other dogs and only wants attention from their owners? This is the dilemma that a Reddit user found themselves in with their 10-year-old dog.

The dog used to be quite playful, but as she's aged, she's become less interested in other dogs and more interested in getting pets from other people. While OP still takes their dog to the park to socialize, they've found a new way to keep their furry friend active - a laser pointer.

OP discovered their dog's interest in laser pointers after visiting their brother and sister-in-law who used them to play with their cats. So they decided to buy one and use it as their dog's exercise for the day.

While they go on a mile walk every day, their furry friend has arthritis and can't keep up, so the laser pointer provides a way for her to get some exercise. However, not everyone at the park has been a fan of this new activity.

OP has been condemned twice by random people at the park who claim that it's unhealthy for dogs and can even give them OCD. They call it "laser pointer syndrome" and warn that it can heighten a dog's prey drive.

While OP admits that their dog does become extremely attentive when she knows the laser is coming out, they haven't noticed any other changes in behavior. And their dog doesn't seem to be looking for the laser at home.

OP had no idea about the potential issues with laser pointers before, but now that they do, they're unsure whether they should continue using it at the park.

OP goes to the park with their 10-year-old dog all the time

The dog doesn't enjoy socializing with other dogs but she likes being outside and getting pets by other people

OP found out that the dog loves to play with laser pointers and OP brings it with them to the park

Most people don't say anything about the laser pointer, but a few people condemned OP for using because of laser pointer syndrome

OP hasn't noticed any issues with their dog while using the laser pointer so they turned to Reddit to see if they should stop using it

Can't risk the health of other dogs

An easy solution

If you know better, do better

They pack a punch!

Not everyone thinks the same

So, would they be wrong if they continued to use the laser pointer at the dog park? It's a tough question, and there are valid arguments on both sides.

On the one hand, if the dog enjoys playing with the laser and isn't exhibiting any negative behaviors, then it seems like harmless fun. On the other hand, if there is a potential risk to the dog's health, then it's understandable why people at the park are concerned.

Senad