Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Exercise Your Pets!


It's time to get those leashes out and take a walk or run with your canine companions!  Fetching ball or frisbee, swimming, and agility are also activities that many dogs enjoy.  There are even special harnesses available that allow your dog to run beside your bike!  Activity helps control weight and reduces destructive behaviors, like chewing and licking, that can begin with boredom.  Many dogs have been bred to work, and need lots of activity to have good behavior.  Indoor cats are sometimes difficult to exercise, but many enjoy chasing toys or laser lights, batting around a puzzle ball with a portion of their daily kibbles inside, or even walking with a leash and harness.  A simple puzzle box can be made by cutting holes in a toilet paper tube and taping over the ends.  Can you feel your pet's ribs?  If not, a change in diet is probably in order as well.  Ask your veterinarian for suggestions on switching to a light food, and how much to feed at each meal.  Keeping your pet at a healthy weight will prolong its life and help avoid medical problems such as diabetes and arthritis pain, so get moving!

Find out more about our Biggest Loser for Pets Contest by clicking here!
"Pappy" Dysinger of Thorn Bottom hunting is pictured doing his fave activity - bird hunting!
Author: Dr. Sara Smith

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