Staying active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and as a responsible pet owner, you must ensure your pet stays active too. More than half of U.S. pets are overweight—putting them at risk for chronic health problems and a shortened lifespan—and the statistics for Canadian pets are likely similar. Along with a nutritious, appropriately portioned diet, daily exercise is the best antidote to pet obesity and related health issues. Southern Ontario offers you and your pet access to a variety of beautiful places to explore, inviting you to stay active, and implement a regular exercise routine that can improve your pet’s physical and mental health while strengthening the close bond you share. To jump-start an exercise routine with your pet, follow our North Waterloo Veterinary Hospital team’s tips.
Staying active with your pet is beneficial
When you and your pet get moving, you both improve your wellbeing. By keeping your pet active throughout all their life’s stages, they reap numerous physical and mental benefits, including:
- Positive mental health — Pets who are sedentary have an increased depression risk and a decreased quality of life. By ensuring your pet’s body and brain remain active, you are supporting their physical and mental health.
- Improved behavior —Pets who do not engage in regular activity or who do not have access to a variety of enrichment toys and activities may behave inappropriately because they are bored. For the sake of your pet’s health—and your favorite shoes—keep your pet active to prevent them from displaying destructive behavior.
- Weight management — Managing your pet’s nutrition and helping them engage in an active lifestyle will help ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
- Better sleep — If your pet has abundant energy at day’s end, they likely need more daily exercise or playtime. Daily physical activity helps ensure your pet enjoys consistent, restful sleep—a vital component of their overall health.
- Improved overall health — Regular exercise enhances your pet’s wellbeing in so many ways. These health benefits include:
- Increased joint mobility
- Decreased arthritis incidence
- Improved cardiovascular function
- Improved muscle tone
- Improved digestion
How to stay active outdoors with your pet
Staying active with your pet doesn’t have to look a certain way. Experiment with various activities, and determine the one your pet most enjoys. If you have become bored with one activity, your pet likely has too. Switch up activities to keep things fun and exciting by trying the following:
- Take a walk — Walking your pet is a tried-and-true way for you both to stay active. Walking is low-impact, which means this activity is gentle on your pet’s joints and is appropriate for all fitness types, including overweight pets or those who have arthritis.
- Go for a hike — Hiking is another great physical activity, and Southern Ontario provides a beautiful backdrop with plenty of pet-friendly hiking trails. Hiking is a great cardio workout, and getting out in nature boosts your mood, helping combat everyone’s stress and anxiety.
- Swim — Not all pets enjoy spending time in the water, but for those who do, swimming is fun physical exercise. As is walking, swimming is a low-impact activity, as the water takes the weight off your pet’s joints. Some breeds are natural swimmers, but others may not instinctively know how to swim. Until you’re confident your pet is comfortable in the water, ensure they wear a life vest, and always supervise them while swimming.
How to stay active indoors with your pet
Although Southern Ontario offers abundant places for outdoor activity, perhaps you are short on time, or the weather is ugly. No matter the reason you decide to stay indoors, you and your
pet can always get moving in the house. Your pet is likely to enjoy these entertaining past times:
- Plan a treasure hunt — During this activity, your pet uses their nose to find their favorite toy or treat that you have hidden in the house. Keep your pet contained in a room while you hide the treasure. Avoid hiding the reward too well, but do hide the item well
- enough to challenge your pet. Once the treat or toy is hidden, release your pet from their room, and let the fun begin as your four-legged friend sniffs out their treasure. This activity provides your pet physical exercise and keeps them mentally sharp as they work to find their treats.
- Teach a new trick — Keep your pet active and mentally engaged by holding short training sessions throughout the day. Brush up on old tricks, or teach them new skills. With enough patience, effort, and treats, your pet can learn some new exciting tricks. In addition, the time you spend training your pet strengthens your bond with them.
Staying active with your pet is essential for the health and wellbeing of you both, and you can both also have fun. Before you start a new exercise regimen with your furry friend, ensure they are in good physical health by scheduling a wellness exam with our North Waterloo Veterinary Hospital team.
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