Earth Day is recognized in April; April 22nd to be exact. I think it’s great to have a designated day for reminders and new and improved ways of caring for our beautiful world.
I love getting outside and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine; especially when the weather is nice. It can also be nice taking a leisurly stroll in the rain. I love the smell of a spring rain on the asphalt. It can be so peaceful and relaxing.
One way that we can enjoy our beautiful world with our sweet animal companions is by being outside, exercising and enjoying mother nature. Take in the fresh air, feel the sunshine on your face, notice the wind blowing through your hair – and give thanks for our beautiful Earth.
Working out with your pets is good for both of you. Almost half of all dogs in the U.S. are overweight, so team up to lose weight together.
Here are some ideas for working out with dogs and other animals:
Benefits of Working Out With Pets
- Get fit together. Depending on their age and other factors, most dogs need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. Experts recommend that people engage in physical activity for a half hour or more at least 3 times a week.
- Exercise more consistently. Studies show that people were more likely to stick to an exercise program when their dog was involved. Your motivation will be stronger when you’re having fun.
- Increase bonding. Spending time together with your pets improves your relationship. Many activities also provide opportunities to reinforce training.
- Reduce unwanted behaviors. Boredom is often to blame when pets behave badly. Fetching a Frisbee will divert your dog from chewing up your furniture or digging up your garden.
Working Out With Dogs
- Check with your veterinarian. Schedule checkups with your doctor and your veterinarian before you get started. It’s especially important if you’ve been sedentary up until now or if either of you are seniors.
- Pick the right breed. Ensure your dog fits your lifestyle. Some breeds tolerate hot or cold weather better. Working breeds will relish keeping up with the most ardent fitness fanatic.
- Watch for overheating. Dogs cannot sweat, so watch for signs of heat exhaustion. If you see excessive panting and loss of balance, give them water and rest in a shady spot.
- Bike in safe areas. There are conflicting opinions about whether it’s safe to bike or roller blade with a dog. Devices that tie a dog to a wheeled vehicle could be dangerous if you take a spill. Stick to soft surfaces and safe routes if you want to try it.
- Control the leash. Keeping a leash in your hand provides more security than tying it to your wrist or waist. Train your dog to obey voice commands too.
- Take a walk. Daily walks are an easy and effective way to strengthen your heart and bones and improve your overall well being. Use them as the centerpiece of your program.
- Go running. Most dogs are better designed for short bursts of activity rather than long runs. If you want to jog, build up to longer distances gradually, include time for warming up and cooling down, and watch for signs of over exertion.
- Try cross country skiing. Skijooring classes will teach you both to ski. Your dog will usually need to weigh at least 35 pounds so that he can pull you with a harness.
- Play games. Add variety with interactive toys and agility courses. Buy equipment or build your own hurdles and tunnels.
Working Out With Other Animals
- Entertain your cat. Cats need stimulation too, but most games suitable for them burn few calories for humans. Enjoy some laser tag and then go hit the gym.
- Lose weight with horseback riding. Riding a horse is a great whole body workout because you flex your muscles to maintain your balance. Controlling a galloping horse burns about as many calories as running.
- Be prudent about exotic animals. Some unusual pets, like spiders, are relatively easy to care for but contribute little to your physical training. On the other hand, think carefully before you commit to bringing home a monkey who will be very demanding in terms of exercise and companionship.
A more active lifestyle helps you and your fur-babies live a longer and healthier life. Simple daily walks may be all you need to shape up or you can diversify your routine with other games and sports.
Another added benefit – your pet will L-O-V-E the attention and time with you. We keep the dog leashes hanging on a peg on the back porch and my German Shepherd, Poppy, will nudge the leash whenever she wants to be taken on a walk. That’s her signal. She loves going on walks and it’s good for me too.
What activities do you enjoy doing with your pet? Does your pet have any favorites? Let me know in the comments.
Speaking of Earth Day – if you have children in your life and need some FUN reading and activities material that teaches and reinforces the importance of caring for our world, I invite you to check this out: St. Francis – Caring for our World
Here is a quick summary:
“St. Francis, Brother Sun and Sister Moon” – In this magical children’s book, your child will learn important lessons on how to care for our earth from St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the environment. St. Francis engages in a poignant and meaningful dialogue with Brother Sun, Sister Moon and Mother Earth on ways, within our modern society, to keep the earth and all of her inhabitants healthy. This book, in a lively and entertaining way, will offer practical tips appropriate for children of all ages, on how we can each do our part. As an extra bonus, this e-book contains fun and creative learning prompts that will not only teach your child valuable lessons but will entertain for hours.
St. Francis – Caring for our World is actually a triology with 3 stories and companion activities that are thought-provoking and encourage creativity.
Check it out HERE
If you are looking for FUN ways to get the entire family involved with caring for the family dog, check this out: 25 Easy Dog Tips to Keep you on Track
Here is a quick summary:
The 25 Tips workbook is designed for busy people to continue working with their dogs on a consistent and regular basis. Our life today is so chaotic that we may sometimes forget or don’t have enough energy to spend the proper time with our pets, but they need schedule and planning, so in order to have a balanced and happy home, I came up with these practical tips that will help you regain your balance.
BONUS: THE CARD GAME
The card game is supposed to be a fun way of working with your pup. You shuffle the deck and then practice whatever card is pulled. This is great fun for adults and children.
Turn the care of the family pet into a FUN game for the entire family. Grab it HERE
And we cannot forget that Mother’s Day is right around the corner.
I have a FREE Mother’s Day card that I created for you.
Isn’t it pretty?
Just print it off and write your personalized message inside. No need to run out to the store to purchase one.
Grab your FREE card here: Best Mom Freebie Card
Grab the matching envelope HERE
And if you need some additional spring/summer note cards, grab them HERE
I wish YOU a Happy Mother’s Day!!! You are so loved and appreciated!????
’til next time,
