Hi Humans,

I hope you had a sweet weekend!

Are you doing something sweet with your dog this 4th of July holiday?  If so, I hope you’re taking extra care of your dog,  who’ll most likely find the fireworks loud and scary. Victoria Stilwell is bringing you some awesome safety tips for your dogs, that I encourage you to read carefully.

Today’s guest writer is Ruth Bashinsky  – a freelance journalist with the New York Times, Newsday, New York Daily News and owner of a dog walking/pet sitting company. She also writes the blog, Ruthie & The Pack.

Ruth is writing about the benefits of dog walking. here you go!

 

I don’t know about you, but when it is time to go for a walk my dogs get all goofy, and the drooling, jumping and tail wagging immediately follows.

Oliver, my 115 lb.  Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and Buck, my 15 lb. TeddyPoo, try and outsmart each other trying to get to the front door first. They both know that walk time means their time to play, socialize, exercise, explore and take care of business.

Whether it is a long, peaceful stroll or a short sprint along a busy city street, any walk is a good walk for your pup. The physical and psychological benefits are worth considering for both you and your canine. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), regular exercise with our pet leads to better physical and mental health. It also helps strengthen the bond we share with our furry friend.

As a professional dog walker, I am lucky enough to walk different types of dogs every day. I share in their excitement.

Below are just some of the reasons our dogs need that walk, one-on-one, or with the rest of the pack. Either way, you are sure to get some wet, sloppy kisses in return.

 

•   Get moving. An estimated 54% of dogs in the United States are obese, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. Pets need regular and consistent exercise to remain happy and healthy. Giving your dog at least three walks a day with 20 minutes per walk is ideal.

 

•   Frequent walks keep your pup happy and stimulated. It is a chance to meet new friends —the human and furry kind — which encourages proper socialization. It also builds confidence, particularly if your pup is shy or fearful.  A walk is also a great way to kick their senses into high gear. They get to investigate and discover all new sounds, sights and smells making it a fun adventure for them.

 

•  Daily walks keep boredom at bay and less time for mischief. Dogs that go on regular walks get to burn off that excess energy so by the time they return home they are good and tired and calm. They have less time to bark, chew and act destructively.

 

•   It is not uncommon for a dog to get mopey and even anxious when indoors for too long. Dogs need their outdoor time. Being part of a consistent walking routine gives them something to look forward to, especially if their owner is out and working long hours.

 

• Regular walks are also an opportunity to train your dogs while walking on a leash. They will learn how to follow your lead. It is also a time for them to get familiar with different commands such as, “sit,” “stay” and “heel.”

 

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Ruth Bashinsky is a freelance journalist with the New York Times, Newsday, New York Daily News and owner of a dog walking/pet sitting company. She also writes the blog, Ruthie & The Pack.