Hi Friends!
“A tired dog is a good dog.” While you’ve probably heard the saying
many times, there’s a lot of truth to that simple phrase. Bored dogs
will often try to entertain themselves—whether that means chewing your
shoes, barking at what seem like imaginary sounds, digging up your
flower garden, or chasing their own tails.
Playtime can solve many behavior problems and help you strengthen the
bond with your dog at the same time. Walks—preferably twice a day for
at least half an hour each—are a great way to help your dog burn some calories but playing together adds a whole additional layer
of activity. Just as children learn and develop through play, our pets
need the stimulation, both mental and physical, that play can provide
to develop their full potential.
It's getting cold outside and suddenly a
game of fetch seems less appealing than it did 4 months ago. Ensuring
that your dogs get enough exercise throughout the year is crucial to
their health.
Every season is beautiful in its own special way. The burst of
flowers in spring, memories of the beach during summer, the colors of
fall, and now, as winter arrives, we await the snow dusted pine trees of
a frosty morning. Our dogs love every season as well, racing through
flowers, leaves or snow with equal vigor. But enough romanticizing the
cold – it isn’t always easy to get started when the sun sets before you
get out of work, walking down the street means dodging slush puddles and
you’re layering on outerwear until your arms won’t reach your sides.
Here are 7 active tips to keep your dog healthy this winter.
1. What you Need to Know
Your pup’s exercise requirements will differ by age, size, breed and
diet, but most veterinarians will agree that a dog needs daily exercise,
broken up into two or three sessions, totaling no less than 45 minutes a
day. An exercise session can be anything from a brisk walk to a game of
catch or a hard run but it should try to incorporate both physical and
mental stimulation, as well as a bathroom break.
2. Put On Your Fur
Put yourself in your dog’s winter booties. If you had a thick layer
of fur, you wouldn’t mind spending an extra ten minutes rolling in the
snow. Always dress to be as warm as your pooch and keep moving along
with them. In this way you will both be at a similar temperature and you
will be more likely to want to go in at the same time.
*If you have a husky or other cold-weather dog, you better invest in a warmer coat!
3. The Right Apparel is Key
Choosing the right clothing and gear is important for both you and
your dog. Avoid slipping on ice with a good pair of winter boots, and
get a matching pair of booties for your dog to help keep their paws safe
and comfy. Likewise, having some unique winter toys on hand can
increase the fun factor. Imagine playing fetch with a heavy ball in the
snow – one throw and it’s game over. Choose a bright colored or
glow-in-the-dark Frisbee that won’t sink into snow.
4. Make Your ‘Dog Chores’ Part of Your ‘Life Chores’
Exercise is as crucial for your health as it is for your dogs. Don’t
come home from the gym dreading your evening dog walk. Instead develop a
manageable winter workout to do with your dog. Snowshoeing and
cross-country skiing are great exercises you can share with your dog,
but snowball fights and sledding are also healthy pursuits your dog and
family will love to get together for.
5. Learn a New Sport
You have probably heard of dog sledding but have you ever heard of
skijoring? Skijoring is a variation on dog-sledding where all your dog
has to pull is you, on skis. Dog sledding can be a fun and humane sport
if you know what you’re doing but skijoring requires much less equipment
and a lighter load which means it can be more suitable for someone who
is running only one or two dogs. As with all dog-pulling activities you
have to have the right leash to avoid straining your pooch. Get a sense
of how much weight your dog is comfortable pulling and let them dictate
the pace of the activity.
Or what about snowshoeing with your dog. This snow-hiking experience is a favorite of many hikers for the
beautiful landscapes you get to enjoy. Why not bring your dog along to
enjoy it with you? Since there aren't any snowshoes made for dogs, it's
important to consider whether the snow is packed enough for your dog to
walk on, or be prepared to "pave" the way for your dog by stomping down
on the snow!
6. Diet for a Darker Day
New studies in canine medicine suggest dogs are as susceptible to
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) as humans. The best way to fight
winter blues is with lots of exercise and a healthy diet,
rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin D. If your dog doesn’t feel like
going out even when you snap on the leash and start shaking the treats
bag it may mean they are suffering from SAD and they could benefit from a
multi-vitamin and the use of a sun lamp for a few mid-day hours.
7. Bring the Play Inside
If all else fails and you must
stay in, don’t let that be an excuse not to show your dog love and
attention with active indoor games.
Race up and down the stairs, try some tug of war, or practice some Dog
Yoga. There are so many great ways to interact with your dog.
The cold days will come but, for your dog’s health and yours, try to stay active and keep having fun.
May Every Day Be Filled With Creature Comforts!
Warmly,
Paul
Paul F. Flotron
Creature Comforts Great & Small, LLC
"Giving your creatures the comfort they deserve"
www.CreatureComfortsGreatnSmall.com
314-200-8561
Cell: 314-775-7107
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