I always get intimidated when I read exercise tips from exercise pros. Invariably it’s some triathlon veteran with incredible abs who promises to get you ready to do your first ironman in six months’ time or less. And for me, as someone with a busy schedule and kids and knees that shudder at the thought of a 15 mile run, I want something a little more realistic.
And it can be done. Anything is better than nothing, and a moderate approach is a little more accessible than a marathon training schedule, at least for the average dog owner out there. A 5K, for example, is a fun and reasonable goal even for people who wouldn’t consider themselves elite athletes. In that vein, Brody and I are going to participate in the Puppy Love 5K in February with a group of friends.
For those who want to embark on an exercise goal with their pets without committing to an intense schedule, let’s keep in mind some common sense tips and endpoints:
1. Go slow. If you have a dog who is older or has a condition that predisposes them to sensitivities when it comes to a cardiovascular regime, follow their lead. Arthritic pets are going to be slower in the morning while it’s cold out and their joints are a bit stiffer; brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs, and pets who are overweight, are going to accumulate heat more quickly than other breeds and may need to start with shorter distances.
2. Keep hydrated. A travel bowl such as the TazLab AquaFur is a necessity especially if your dog doesn’t like to drink out of a water bottle.
3. Have the right gear: Retractable leads make pets much more difficult to control. I use a standard 6 foot lead or a sports lead such as the EZY Dog shock absorber leash in conjunction with a no-pull head harness or chest harness like the Easy Walk.
4. Have fun! Pick an activity that is enjoyable for you and for your dog. If it’s a drag for you or for them, there’s no way you’re going to stick with it. There are tons of Meetup groups if you like to share your activity with friends.
And as always, don’t forget the poop bags. One, it’s against the law in most locales NOT to pick up after your dog. And two, it’s gross and gives non-pet people just one more reason to try and prohibit dogs from public places, which we don’t want.
Any other tips for the non-elite athletes that make exercise fun and accessible? Share em here!
Take a garbage bag and pick up litter/sticks/pine cones…whatever…that bending down (in good form!) to pick stuff works some extra muscles :)! – and something to do while your dog is being a dog…sniffing, etc. I do lunges and squats while I’m waiting but I live in a rural area and have no audience…
Excellent multi tasking! In our area you could keep busy picking up trash. 😀
I think it’s implied in this article, but certainly, if you’re concerned about what your dog can or can’t handle exercise-wise, call your vet! Even if you think you know, you can run your ideas by us. We’re ecstatic and always happy to help get our clients and patients moving more. My clinic is currently hosting a Biggest Loser competition. Top prize is $250. We also can help you figure out how many calories your pet should be eating, etc to help them shed pounds if needed. Sorry to threadjack, Dr. V, but I’m sure you agree with me!
Excellent advice Dr Baebler. I didn’t have a chance to go into that in the segment but I couldn’t agree more, your vet is a great resource for determining proper activity level for for your dog’s individual fitness level.
well, I guess I am going to have to get a dog if I want to get in shape! (heehee… don’t worry, we won’t get a dog until our family can handle it responsibly; until then, I’ll find other ways to get in shape….. hmmmmm wonder if the new guinea pig would be up for a 5K……)
The Puppy Love 5K is just a little too far north for us to participate. Thanks for tips on exercising with your puppy. We usually take a few extra poop bags and pick up after some of the others who left a mess on the trail.
It is look like very cute.
The bowl is very important for the puppies for eating the food.