The weather is getting really nice to begin our walks and runs. However, if we have an older dog, it would be good to approach this exercise with ‘getting into shape’ first. Now we may see our FFBF and say they are in shape and they will stop if they get to feeling bad. This is not necessarily true. Just like we do not always listen to our bodies our pet does not also. So let’s start out slower and most of all pay attention to our FFBF. We know them, we know if something is bothering them and we know when they need a break. Take plenty of water along and their water dish, they will be up to speed in no time.
Each week increasing the length of the walk or run for four weeks and then start increasing the pace. And remember not to overdue; they will let us know as we can increase the pace or length. And always give them a cooling off time as well; walking half a block to the car will be good. You may want to start the exercis4e or finish it with a massage for our friend, this will work two fold. One our friend will love having this personal time with us and two if there is concern over a muscle we will feel the difference in muscles or ligaments as we have done this long enough to know an out of the norm feeling.
Have a great spring and enjoy walking, running or exercising with our FFBF. Check the Off Leash areas in the community, by checking with the local Humane Society or with the Parks and Recreation Department.
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