With the snow and cold weather making everyone just want to snuggle up under some blankets, it’s especially important to remember that your pup still needs regular exercise, which is why January is designated as National Walk Your Dog Month. Here are just a few of the benefits for you and your dog:
Exercise: Both dogs and their owners benefit from regular walks, and it’s more than just preventing obesity (which is a very serious problem in pets). It’s great for cardiovascular health, including lowering blood pressure, strengthening muscles and bones, and can even help prevent other diseases like osteoarthritis and insulin resistance.
It’s a great way to bond: Your dog loves spending time with you, and going for a walk together can help strengthen your bond and reduce stress for everyone. It can help prevent separation anxiety, and be a great opportunity to practice some training, which will provide mental stimulation for your pup!
It provides great enrichment opportunities: Both you and your dog can take advantage of the San Luis Valley, with beautiful views and some amazing bird watching for you, and loads of stuff to sniff for your pup! Just be sure to take some safety precautions, and always pick up after your dog.
Wondering how much exercise your dog needs? These tips from VCA Hospitals and the AKC should give you a good place to start:
Aim for walking 30 minutes, 5x/week. If you or your pet have any health conditions, you’ll want to start slower. Be sure to check with your vet (and your doctor) to make sure you’re both healthy enough to start a walking regimen.
Adjust your walk based on your pet - A senior dog may not need as much exercise as an adult, and puppies benefit from shorter, more frequent exercise throughout the day. The breed of your pup will also determine how much exercise they need; an English bulldog doesn’t require the same amount of exercise as an Australian shepherd.
Keep walks shorter in extreme heat or cold, and try to avoid walking during the hottest/coldest parts of the day.
Bring fresh water for you both - and stay hydrated!
Keep it interesting by changing up your course! Walking the same route day after day will become more of a chore (and less stimulating) to both you and your pup, so take advantage of walking in different neighborhoods and trails.
Always make sure to bring bags and clean up after your pet!
It's never too late to start exercising with your dog, and you can both take advantage of the rewards!
While you’re here, check out our blogs on Winter Pet Safety, Hiking Tips, and Watching Wildlife with Your Dog! We also have reviews of the Alamosa Riparian Park and the Oxbow Trail System, two of Alamosa's most popular in-town trail systems. Contact us today to take advantage of our January special and schedule your dog's next adventure!