As we inch closer to Spring now is a great time for all of us to get into shape, and a furry friend is great incentive.  With obesity as rampant in our pet population as our own it makes great sense to include your dog in a new healthy lifestyle.  Obesity in our pets greatly diminishes their life expectancy by predisposing them to diseases like diabetes and the pain of joint disease.  So if you want your canine companion to live the long life that all the veterinary technology now allows them, then get them involved in a regular exercise program. 

Just remember to follow a few simple guidelines:
• Have a good checkup with your veterinarian to be sure your dog is healthy enough to begin an exercise program
• Start slowly.  Begin with just walking around the block or neighborhood and work your way up to jogging or walking longer distances.  They get just as sore as we do if they don’t start gradually
• Be careful of their pads on different surfaces like ice, ice treated with melting chemicals and hot asphalt.
• Carry your own water and bowls so they are not tempted to drink out of puddles.
• Bring along plastic bags to clean up after your pet so that everyone can continue to enjoy public areas with their pets
• Have a comfortable leash for both of you. 
• A special harness is an easy remedy if your dog pulls on lead.
• Have reflective equipment if going out after dark.

Enjoy the fruits of your efforts with a longer, healthy life for the whole family. 

Today’s blog was written by Dr. Angela Ivey, medical director at the Richmond SPCA. Dr. Ivey spent many years in private veterinary practice before joining the medical staff at the Richmond SPCA in 2004.

No comments have been posted.

Post Your Comments:

Commenting is not available in this weblog entry.