Did you know that 40 percent of dogs in the United States are overweight? That amounts to roughly 17 million dogs in America! Since we’re celebrating National Walk Your Dog Week October 1st through October 7th, this is a perfect time to commit to walking your four-legged fur baby every day, even if he or she isn’t a pudgy pooch. Daily walks of just 30 minutes meet national recommendations for heart health and give you and your pet a chance to enjoy the fresh fall air together.
Are you bored walking the same old path every day? Try something different during National Walk Your Dog Week, like inviting a friend along for your walk. Leave your cell phone at home (or at least on silent) and head out with someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with. You’ll have a lot more fun chatting in person than texting or talking on the phone, and although we’re sure your dog listens when you speak, those conversations are a bit one-sided.
Here are some suggestions for changing up your daily walking routine during this special week:
- Try a new route, or start your where you usually end it and work your way backwards
- Visit a park you’ve never been to before
- Offer to walk an elderly neighbor’s dog
- Host a costumed puppy party and end it with an award ceremony for the cutest costumes
- Visit a local animal shelter and offer to help exercise their dogs
- Take your kid-friendly dog to a daycare for a play date (check with the director first!)
- Volunteer at a canine rescue and socialize dogs rescued from puppy mills
- Visit a local senior living community or nursing home that allows pet visits
- Pick up the kids from school for lunch and bring along the family dog for a midday visit
- Take your pooch shopping for a new winter walking outfit
There are so many benefits to walking it would be hard to list them all here. An autumn walk means enjoying the leaves changing color, the absence of summer heat replaced with the freshness of fall, and time to reflect back on the year and perhaps make healthy changes for next year like walking your dog more! Walking 30 minutes a day can lower blood pressure, increase energy, heighten your sense of happiness, and help stave off holiday weight gain before it starts. So go ahead, get out there and walk during National Walk Your Dog Week, and see how good it makes you (and your dog!) feel. You’ll be happier, your puppy will be perkier, and you’ll both sleep better at night. If you’re looking for a perfect present for your precious pooch or a pet loving friend, check out these pretty choices for the pet lover in your life.
