Did you know, it’s Walk Your Pet Month? If you didn’t know this holiday exists, we’re hear to remind you of the many healing benefits your pets offer. To jumpstart a healthy lifestyle routine, grab a leash and get going. Your dog is the best personal trainer you can have. They’ll never give you an excuse to forego exercising and will always be energetic, enthusiastic and hardworking.
“Over the last decade or so there have been periodic reports on the association between pet ownership and cardiovascular risk,” said Dr. Glenn N. Levine, a cardiologist with the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Administration Medical Center in Houston and lead author of a new scientific statement by the AHA which looked at the influence of pets on heart health. Here are the top three heart health benefits of walking your pet:
In addition, The US Department of Health and Human Services states that the health benefits of “regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health”. It can help:
That’s not all. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 40 percent of dogs…a total of about 17 million in the United States, are overweight. “If you walk your dog just 30 minutes a day, you will meet national recommendations for heart health” – said Colleen Paige. Your pet’s health is just as important as yours. Lack of exercise for your pet, can result in serious behavior issues such as aggression, destruction and separation anxiety issues. If your dog has a yard to play in, walking isn’t the only form of exercise available. However, don’t expect your dog to create their own exercise routine just because you’ve put them outside. Dogs don’t self-entertain, so if you want to tire your pet out, play catch or fetch.
Now that you have all the stats, will you go and walk your pet for 30-60 minutes a day? We hope so. Your pet will be happy and you will be healthy. It’s a win-win!