Walking your dog to better health
March 5th, 2008
I have a dog named Sam who waits everyday for me and my partner to take him out for a walk. He is a Jack Russell and those of you who are either lucky enough to have one or just love dogs will know that they are live wires. They love to be out and about walking, running, chasing and just loving life.
At the beginning when we first brought Sam home(8 weeks old), I sometimes sighed at the prospect of having to take him out for his run. I am a busy person and spending half an hour or more taking my dog to the park seemed an inconvenience at times. That quickly gave way to enjoyment. Not only did it give me a chance to bond with him, albeit briefly as he was usually off and running the moment I let him off his leash, but I felt better.
Regardless of the weather or time of day, I just felt so good afterwards.
Sam is a lucky dog because he usually gets two walks a day. He is getting older now so doesn’t spend as much time running around like a chook with it’s head cut off but he still likes his walk.
Studies have shown that people who walk their dogs spend 18 minutes more per week walking than those who don’t have a dog. That probably doesn’t sound like much but research has also shown that the benefits of walking your dog are comparable to quitting smoking. 
To get my heart rate going, I like to chase Sam around the park. It has become a favorite game of Sam’s, he knows when I am ready to be chased and will crouch down on all fours and place his head on his two front paws. From the moment I sprint off, he springs up and quickly chases me down. These quick burst of energy are not only great for me but also for Sam. After all, I want to make sure he has a long and healthy life as well.
So if you have a dog and don’t walk him or her regularly, do yourself and your dog a favor and get out there and start walking.
If you have a dog who pulls on the lead, you may like to read this article on loose-Leash Walking
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