Safety is priority #1! Unless you have an underground electric fence or fenced in yard, rest assured that your pet will be on a lead, or walked with a lead. I DO NOT use retractable leashes- they are not endorsed by Rover, and Rover prefers if we use a static, also known as a single solid leash. Static leads have almost no risk of breaking like a retractable leash potentially could,!especially if your pet were to bolt towards wildlife, become startled, etc. I am very cautious with weather, so I have no problem walking early or late in the summer. I am geared up for the winter; and do not shy from snow. I will always walk towards traffic- that way we can see what’s coming towards us. I carry a water source on me- even during the winter, energy is being exerted and we still need to remember to hydrate.