Running with Your Dog

Many athletes and gym enthusiasts are psyched about having a furry friend to take on runs! Running with your dog can be a fun activity for both you and your pet, but there are a few important things to keep in mind before you set off on a marathon together. Here are just a few:

Pace Yourself: Remember that even a young, healthy dog will need to work up to your speed and distance if they’ve never run before. Start at a slow place, and gradually increase your speed and distance over time.

Take Cues from Your Dog: Along the same lines as pace, make sure that you are always paying attention to your dog during your run and “listening” to their needs. If your dog is starting to slow down, panting excessively, or lies down during your run, it’s time to take a break and get them some water.

Bring Plenty of Water: Make sure that you’ve got ample water with you - both for you and your dog! Consider investing in a few water bottles that can attach to a belt and a collapsible bowl that you can bring along with you. Another option is to plan your routes so you know you’ll pass several spots where free drinking water will be readily available.

Be Distraction-Free: Many people like to listen to music or a podcast while running, but it’s important that when you’re running with a companion that you don’t wear headphones, and listen carefully to other runners, bikers, and traffic around you to ensure that both you and your pet stay safe during your run.

One last thought, some bicycle riders think that it is a good to exercise their dog while riding. Running a dog beside a bicycle is not a good idea and is NEVER recommended by pet care professionals.

Interested in getting your dog more exercise? Consider dog daycare in Fort Myers FL!

Pavement Problems

We’ve all experienced the feeling of being barefoot on the beach and walking on hot sand during the summer months – and it can be terrible! Just imagine how your dog must feel going on walks on the hot pavement all summer long!

It can be tough to stay off of the cement or pavement during walks, but it is important to try to walk your dog on grass or another cool surface where possible when the temperature exceeds 70 degrees.

If you’re unsure of whether or not the pavement is too hot for you dog’s feet, try this trick: place the palm of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If you’re able to comfortably leave your hand there for that long, the ground is cool enough for your dog to walk on. If you find that you have to pick your hand up before the 5 seconds are up, or your hand is burning by the end of it, the pavement it too hot for your dog to be on.

Walking your dog on hot pavement can lead to serious burns and sores on his paws, which he can further agitate by licking or biting his paws and pads. Make sure you do everything you can to keep your dog’s feet safe this summer!

For more summer safety tips, click here to visit our website or contact one of our daycare professionals!