Autumn is a wonderful time of year, especially here in Pennsylvania. The crisp, cool air and spectacular leaf show make exercising outside easier. Simply walking your dog can have tremendous health benefits for both of you. Who knew that taking the dog out could be so good for you?
Benefits Walking Provides Pets
- Keeps Pets Healthy – Exercise keeps pets healthy, agile, and limber. Walking also helps control your dog’s weight.
- Helps Digestive System – Regular walks aid in the digestive process and help to relieve constipation.
- Controls Behavior - Walking can help reduce destructive chewing, digging, or scratching. Walks curb other behaviors such as knocking over furniture, jumping on people, excessive barking, and whining.
- Builds Trust – By walking, you can build your pet’s confidence by exposing him to other humans and animals. This time together will strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
- Helps Your Health - Even though walking the dog is sometimes a chore, the health benefits you gain will out way the inconvenience.
Most veterinarians recommend that every dog be walked on a leash 2x daily for a minimum of 20 minutes. Of course this is only a recommendation, but if you don’t walk daily, it’s never too late to begin. This week, October 1-7 marks the National Walk Your Dog Week – a perfect time to start something new. Autumn is a beautiful and invigorating time to get outside with your dog, so make the most of the season before it’s too cold.