Exercise Everyday Keeps The Vet At Bay!Exercise stimulates us mentally increasing our endorphins causing us to be in a happy mood. This is the same in dogs of all breeds. The primary way for dogs to expend their energy is through physical activity. Before our pets were domesticated, they had to fend for themselves out in the wild, which required them to be active, especially if they wanted to eat. Their agility was important for capturing prey. The daily physical exertion in hunting, kept them lean and fit, toned muscles, strong heart, bones and digestive system. Dogs were bred to work. Dogs worked to shepherd, herd, guard and hunt. Most dog breeds today, retain their natural instinct to work. It is our responsibility, as a pet owner, to put in place a pet fitness routine. As a result of our chaotic lives, our pets may not get as much exercise as they should get. While we are away at work, they are loafing around, eating, sleeping or being destructive. Pet exercise in combination with a balanced natural diet and supplements work in harmony together resulting in a healthy dog. This healthy blend will help maintain a healthy weight, joint elasticity and muscle strength. Regular activity is important for your pet’s overall mental and physical health. It will help eliminate destructive behavior your pet maybe exhibiting. Cats and dogs love to play! You do not need toys to play, but there are a ton of dog toys and cat toys to choose from at pet stores, online stores, catalogs or you can make your own. Most dogs and some cats love chasing things, but they do not always bring it back to you to throw again. For dogs, throwing the Frisbee, tennis ball or Kong will have them chasing and running around. For cats, pulling on a string with something on the end or tossing a soft plush toy will keep them on the move. Dog exercise equipment, such as a treadmill, also provides a great work out. You maybe asking yourself why use a treadmill to walk or run your dog when you can go outside, but there are many reasons why they are useful:
A human treadmill will work; however, if it is too narrow for your dog, you may try looking for one or build one that is wide enough. I have listed a few exercise ideas below. I will add to them, so please check back periodically for other ideas. Walking This is beneficial for humans and our pets. Many people enjoy taking their dog for a walk. Unless your cat is trained to walk on a leash, she or he may not like walking. Start out slow and work up to a pace and distance your pet is comfortable with before launching into a 5-mile walk. It is important to use an appropriate collar depending on the size of your dog. You do not want your dog pulling you all around. If possible, walk on dirt, grass or gravel. Concrete is hard on their paws. If your dog is completely out of shape or has been sick, please consult with your veterinarian before getting into a regular exercise routine. Biking Do not attempt this with a dog leash because you need both hands on the handle bars. You can find bike attachments so your dog can safely jog beside you. Swimming This is low stress on their joints, so swimming is great for arthritic dogs. The water temperature should be luke warm to warm. If the water is too cold, muscles can tighten up. If your pup needs help staying afloat, help support him/her by holding the base of their tail. You may want to limit swimming time to 10 minutes at a time because it can cause soreness. Hiking It is great to get out in the middle of nature! My dogs LOVE hiking – their natural instincts kick in. Watch out chipmunks!! It is a sense of adventure. You can strap on a doggy pack and have them carry their water and food. Fetching Not all dogs fetch, but even if they chase the ball, that is good exercise. I use a Kong, so when it bounces it gives my dog a work out just chasing it around. Yoga Yes, there is yoga for dogs! Just when you think yoga is just for humans. This is just another way to spend quality time with your dog while exercising. It is for dogs of all sizes. You are in constant physical contact with your dog while doing yoga poses. Since touch is so important and therapeutic to our pets, dogs love this constant contact! Before attempting any regular regimen, please consult with your vet! Click Here to Return Home from Exercise
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