Pets of any age, breed or size benefit from regular exercise. Therefore, pet owners must prioritise their pets’ need for consistent physical activity to maintain their overall wellness. This blog will highlight the benefits of exercise for pets and offer ways of incorporating physical activities into your pet’s everyday routine.
4 Benefits of Exercise for Pets
Promotes Health Weight
Like people, pets may suffer from health problems related to obesity or being overweight, such as heart disease, diabetes and joint problems. Exercise assists in calorie burning and muscle toning and supports their overall health. It means less time at the vet’s for weight related issues and lower medical expenses in later years.
Improves Mental Wellbeing
Regular exercise impacts pets’ mental health. It helps minimise stress levels, promotes relaxation, and enhances mental wellness. Have you ever noticed how much happy tail wagging your furbaby does when you take out their leash in anticipation of a fun walk in the park? Routine exercises like walking, running, or playing reduce boredom and pet anxiety. These activities are also a great way to spend quality time together, which results in a stronger bond with pets.
Prevents Behavioural Problems
Dogs, in particular, may develop destructive behaviours, such as chewing furniture or excessive barking, if they don’t get enough exercise. Provide your pets with opportunities for regular physical activities to drain their energy, so they stay calm and well adjusted.
Keeps Your Pet Healthy
Exercise significantly benefits pet health. Pets with healthy hearts, strong joints, and built-up muscles are less likely to develop chronic diseases such as arthritis or age-related mobility problems. Exercise can also improve digestion and strengthen the immune system, making pets more resilient to illnesses.
How to Incorporate Physical Activity Into Your Pet’s Routine
- Start with brief activity periods that your pet can comfortably handle and gradually increase them as they get used to working out.
- Offer different types of activities to keep things interesting. Experiment with various games, take your pet for walks in other areas or introduce agility training.
- Walk every day as part of your routine. Walking around the block will help your beloved friend maintain good health, and it’s an excellent light workout for you, too!
- As positive reinforcement, use treats during playtime. For example, give them treats for hide-and-seek games when they find the toys you hid.
- Make a regular schedule for your pet’s exercise. Consistency is crucial in developing healthy habits. Set a time so that they can anticipate their fun physical activity.
- Depending on your pet’s age, breed and health status, spend the appropriate time doing the most suitable exercises. While making them physically active is the goal, you also don’t want your fur babies to get too strained due to excessive exercise.
Understanding the Benefits of Exercise for Pet’s Overall Health
Pets enjoy exercising — let’s start with that! It’s crucial for their overall health, too. Like us, pets need regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, stay in shape, and reduce the chances of developing diseases. Exercise also allows them to explore their surroundings and engage in playful games. Remember to consult your veterinarian to determine your pet’s most appropriate exercise routine, considering their breed, age, and health condition.
Spending time together in these activities strengthens the emotional bond between you and your pet and enhances your relationship. Recognising the benefits of exercise for pets allows us to become responsible pet parents who can guide our fur babies on their journey to healthy wellbeing.
