We form lifelong bonds with our beloved pets, and one of the ways we strengthen those bonds is by spending time together. It’s a win-win if you can figure out a way to combine a productive activity like exercise with the opportunity to include your animal companions. Not only are you maintaining an active lifestyle, but your pet is getting exercise too. Here are 5 great ways you can exercise along with your pets.
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1. Running
This one is a classic. Take your pet along for a jog with you. You don’t necessarily need anything too elaborate to make this happen, just a good, reliable leash and whatever jogging gear you need. Unless your dog is older, he or she won’t have any trouble keeping up with you.
One thing to keep in mind, though: Make sure you’ve got all your dog’s vaccinations and medications squared away before taking him or her out for a job in the outdoors. There’s a chance your pet will come in contact with wild animal droppings or even the wild animals themselves. This can run the risk of several illnesses if the dog isn’t protected.
2. Swimming
Dogs love swimming, and a swimming session can provide a full-body workout for both pets and humans. Swimming can be especially good for older dogs, whose joints may ache after running for long periods of time.
If you don’t have a pool of your own, you’ll have to find someplace where dogs are allowed to swim. Check your local area for accommodations, as many larger cities and towns will have a pet-friendly pool.
3. Tug of War and Fetch
Depending on the size of your pet, tug-of-war can be a strenuous game for both parties. But even a smaller pet can put up a pretty good fight.
Fetch can oftentimes be more of a one-sided game, but it doesn’t have to be. If you want to incorporate some exercise for yourself, you can chase after your pet or run with the object for a little while before throwing it. Your pet will likely appreciate that added enthusiasm.
4. Obstacle Courses
Pets enjoy obstacle courses, as they provide a way to challenge them both mentally and physically. These courses can be built for only the pet to navigate or for both humans and pets to encounter together. While it may require some materials and labor to build, an obstacle course can be a long-standing pet/human activity that gives great exercise to both parties.
5. Hiking
If you live in an area that provides access to good hiking trails, hiking is an outstanding way to get good exercise along with your pet. A 30-minute to hour-long hike will leave both you and your pet tuckered out after a nice workout.
If you’re planning on using public trails, be sure to check what restrictions, if any, they place on pets using the trails. You’ll definitely need a good leash, along with materials for cleaning up after your pet. Make sure to be respectful of other hikers, especially if they have pets of their own along for the hike.