Let's Get Physical

We are quickly working our way through the end of Fall and fast approaching Winter.  For most of us that means more time inside watching movies, reading books, and just plain being lazy.  Unfortunately the same is true for our four-legged loved ones.   While it's understandable that most people's outdoor activity wanes when the thermometer drops it doesn't mean that your pets need to pack on additional pounds.  The same way that pet owners hit the gym and the treadmill in lieu of a hike or jog outside, your pets can similarly benefit from indoor workouts.  Here are some fun ways to help keep your pets fit during the cold winter months.

Head to your local pet store and walk the aisles.  If you are like most pet owners a trip to the pet store is fun and your four-legged partner will love getting out of the house and having the ability to smell new smells and socialize with other like-minded pet owners.  Pet Smart and PetCo both embrace bringing your pets with you.  If pet stores aren't your thing many home improvement stores allow leashed pets into the stores to walk the aisles.  Typically the store visitors and staff end-up giving our dogs more love and attention then they can stand.

Make use of chew toys for snack time.  Don't just give fido a treat.  Make it fun and place it in a toy like a Chuck-it Indoor Roller or stuff some peanut butter (make sure you use a brand that doesn't use Xylitol which is harmful to pets) in a chew toy like a Kong.

Dogs are social creatures.  You call up your pals to meet for a drink or a meal. Line-up some four-legged play dates for your pet.  You can combine some of these activities as well.  Meet a friend with a pet at a Pet Smart or similar to check out some new toys or replenish pet supplies. 

Blow the dust off of your treadmill and let your dog use it!  Make sure your pet is trained and used to being on and around the treadmill and never leash an animal to a treadmill but with some patience and time your pet can actually get used to getting some exercise on the treadmill.  It might also help get you motivate to hit your home gym so you both start getting a little more buff and a little more lean ;)

Play some hide and seek!  Hide some favorite toys (this is especially effective if you stick a treat inside of them) around your house in places your pet rarely goes and let that sniffer and those legs get a workout.  When the bounty is captured your pet will have gotten a little exercise, exercised those boredom demons, and will be excited with the find and sure to enjoy the toy.

Lastly, give a pet walker like Paws & Claws Urbana a call.  We all love what we do and most of us are used to the elements and know some fun places to take your pets.  As mentioned before, if you do venture out during the colder months be watchful of the time and exposure to the elements.