The Many Benefits Of Walking For Pets And Their Owners

January is National Walk Your Dog Month

There are numerous benefits to walking your pet! Make sure to keep your pet's vaccinations up-to-date, and make walking part of your daily routine this year. Here are just a few good reasons why you should start today.

Dogs need to release energy
If a dog doesn’t expend extra energy, behavioral issues, such as chewing or separation anxiety, can develop. A tired dog is easier to train than a dog full of energy.  Plus during the walks, you can reinforce training such as heeling, sitting, etc. If your pet is a puller, gentle leaders and harnesses can help.

Help prevent roaming
During the course of a walk, your dog will be exposed to a variety of smells, sights, and sounds. Getting out of the house is a way to fulfill a dog’s need to roam and improve his/her sense of direction.

Do It Regularly
Regular walks can improve and lengthen your pet’s life. Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to help improve their heart function, and muscle tone. 

Keep Your Dog Healthy
​Over half of all dogs suffer with complications due to obesity. Exercise helps prevent and manage chronic diseases by keeping your pet at a healthy weight.  Dogs with arthritis and diabetes can benefit greatly from walking. 

Safety Tips To Keep In Mind When Walking Your Dog

As you, your family and pet enjoy walking out doors this season, follow the number one safety tip: Keep your pet leashed while on walks or exercising in public.

No matter how well-behaved and trained your pet is, outside distractions can be dangerous, even deadly. A leash helps prevent your pet from getting lost, fighting with other pets, chasing wild animals or running into traffic. Keeping your pet leashed can also prevent them from eating or drinking something that could make them sick.

During warmer weather and heightened outdoor activity, your pet may be tempted to drink from puddles, which could contain toxic chemicals such as car radiator coolant. Antifreeze smells and tastes sweet to your pet but if ingested can be bitterly fatal in even small quantities.
​
Play it safe with your pets this season and keep them on a leash when walking or exercising.
​
Please keep in mind that puppies should be NOT be walked in areas with other dog traffic until they are fully vaccinated to avoid exposure to disease. They should also avoid trails in The Woodlands until fully vaccinated due to concerns about leptospirosis. 

Our animal hospital works with pet parents to make sure that their pet is happy and healthy. If you need to get your pet's vaccines up-to-date, or if you have any concerns about your pet's weight or overall health, make an appointment with one of our caring and highly trained vets! 

To make an appointment for your dog or cat click here.