Let’s Get Moving!
Jackie Valentine
Well, here we are at the beginning of spring and many of us have already begun to get out of the house more. We relish the idea of not being cooped up and being able to exercise in whatever way appeals to us. The pleasant effect of fresh air and sunshine on a person’s mood is contagious, and your dog is just as intent on getting in on the action as you are. And, who knows, maybe you can help each other become healthy and fit.
It is common knowledge that we humans need exercise along with a healthy diet to stave off many negative health complications. Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and respiratory ailments, to name a few, all begin to plague the person who is carrying too much weight. So it is with the canine, also.
There’s no time like the present!
Everything needs a starting point, and now is as good a time as any for you and your dog to get out there and walk, run, or cycle around the corner, track or lake. The greatest thing about depending on your dog to be your running partner is that it will never back out on you. How many times have you planned to go walking with your neighbor and one or both of you has to bow out because something comes up. It is never easy to plan around each other’s schedules. On the other hand, Bullet doesn’t have any other commitments, so he will always be ready, willing and able to go with you. In fact, this walk or exercise time will probably become his reason for living. To be close to you and active is the most glorious thing he can imagine! And if you need an extra push from your faithful friend, train him to fetch your tennis shoes at your desired workout time each day. You’ll be amazed at the motivation you’ll get!
You have plenty of options.
There are several fun methods of getting that daily exercise in. Why not try them all with your canine buddy to see what you both like the best?
Walking is great for both of you, and Bullet will love the sights. Be sure that the concrete you walk on is not too hot, and be careful of rocky surfaces that can be hard on his tender paws after awhile. Also, with any exercise that you undertake, you both must stay hydrated. Make sure that your dog is offered water before and after each outing. Try to walk your dog every day, not just once in a while. Be attentive to signs that your dog has had enough- if his tongue is practically to the ground, he is panting rapidly, he is staggering when he walks, has muscle tremors or is noticeably weak, then it is time to go home for the day, he’s tired.
Jogging is also a fantastic workout for both of you. About 20 minutes a day is recommended, however, depending on how active your dog regularly is, he may not think this is nearly long enough. Once again, pay close attention to hydration. This is an ideal exercise method for fit and active dogs. Of course, one requirement for this to be enjoyable as well as feasible is for you to be physically fit yourself. Everyone is different, and you must judge for yourself if this is right for the two of you.
Swimming is the best exercise for anyone who loves the water, of course, but also for dogs or people who have arthritis or other joint pain. A low impact sport, it takes the strain off of any particular joint in which either the dog or person may be experiencing pain. Swimming also tends to build muscle mass that will support the weight of the body, which in turn takes the weight of the body off the joints.
Games like fetch, hide and seek, Frisbee throwing, etc. can all be great exercise, as well as bonding experiences for you and your dog. Getting out, running and playing, and just being with you is great fun for your dog. This playing is not just a spectator sport. When you play with your dog there is plenty of moving about that will actually give you a great workout. It’s a give and take situation that benefits both of you. Running around the backyard, grabbing the toy before your dog gets to it can cause you to exert a great deal of energy if you really play with him long enough.
And last, but certainly not least, consider joining your local CKC Affiliate Club and try your hand at some of the events with your dog. Here is a chance to not only get some exercise, but also teach your dog some cool things and meet some other people who know what it is to enjoy the company of a dog. The atmosphere is friendly, the people and dogs are interesting, and if you like a little competition, well, that’s on hand also. One thing that plays into getting fit is consistency, and being a part of a positive organization is a good way to stick with something. It’s fun, so unlike the boredom that sets in with some exercise regimens, you will remain active without even thinking about it.
So come on, let’s get moving- Don’t just sit there, grab that leash and get going! You will feel better mentally as well as physically and so will your dog. He is just waiting for an invitation to join you on an outside excursion of some kind. Whatever your choice, rest assured that you will have a willing participant in your eager canine friend.