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Exercising Pets
MANHATTAN -- In the spring it seems like everyone is out jogging or speed walking, getting in shape for summer. A Kansas State University veterinarian suggests people should take a good look at Spot or Chopper and see if their dog would benefit from regular exercise.
"The number one reason dogs should exercise is to maintain their weight. Some are overfed and tend to get a little heavy; regular exercise can help control that," said Dr. Howard Erickson, professor of physiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at K-State. "Exercise improves muscle tone, so it's good for show dogs. It also builds endurance and can help prevent cardiovascular disease."
And exercise can keep a dog happy. "If you start a regular schedule, then the dog will start anticipating when you're going to take them for a walk or a jog," he said.
Generally, long-legged dogs or members of the sporting, hounds or working groups are best suited for regular jogging or speed walking, Erickson said. "But all dogs can use regular walks."
As a rule of thumb, if the dog is a small breed (under 25 pounds) wait until he's 8 months old to start a regular jogging or high-level walking program. Dogs who weigh 45 to 95 pounds can go when they're more than 1 year and giant breeds who weigh more than 100 pounds can start a regular program when they're more than 18 months.
"While they're young, let them exercise in the yard, chase rabbits and birds, free play," he said. "You have to give their bones a chance to develop."
But it's important to take precautions. Just as a human shouldn't start an exercise program without seeing their physician, a dog should be checked out by a veterinarian before beginning a regular exercise program.
"You want to be sure your dog is healthy," said Erickson. "He shouldn't have heartworm or any other parasites."
Don't start the dog off with a three mile run or power walk, work up to that distance. If it's a hot day, try to exercise during the cooler parts of the morning or evening. Try to walk in the shade and be sure plenty of water is available to drink. Check the heat of the sidewalk. If it's too hot for you to go barefoot, it's too hot for your dog to walk on it.
"You want a good, obedient dog to exercise with," he said. "The dog should be on a leash and you shouldn't go where there is a lot of traffic."
Information provided by K-State veterinarians. |
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