Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Winter Exercises for your Pets!



During the winter months, it can be difficult to find motivation for you and your pet to get outside and exercise.

Typically smaller breeds with short hair require some additional cozy apparel to stay warm outdoors.  With a few simple tricks and the right apparel, you can train your pet to be much more enthusiastic about playing outdoors in the cold weather!
Try enticing your pet with off-leash exercise, to encourage more aerobic activity, which helps them stay warm.  Walking your pet in wooded areas can protect them from the wind and introduces them to rich smells, sounds and sites that may distract them from the cold weather. 

When winter brings snow, it can be harsh on the paws of your dog because of de-icers that contain chemicals.  A simple solution is canine booties, also “Musher’s Secret” which is a waxy substance that you can apply to their paws for protection.  When exercising outdoors with your furry companion make sure they have access to shelter and water at all times.  You can also try some indoor activities like tug of war with your dog, which involves physical exertion that can keep them in shape.  Winter is also a great time to enroll your pet in indoor training classes.   These are a few good ways to improve the behavior and obedience of your pet in a heated facility that is comfortable for the both of you!

The Bregman Vet Group encourages you to maintain your pet’s health, even in the winter season!  Try and enjoy some exercise together, and be sure to visit your veterinarian regularly throughout the cold winter months! 

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