FITNESS WITH FIDO!

Exercise is essential to keep your dog in tiptop shape. Frequent exercise means that a dog will be more alert and content, will sleep better, have more energy and is more socialised. Dogs are also keen on routine and it is hard to avoid the disappointing look when a walk is not forthcoming. So, establish a routine and consider that a half hour walk twice a day is enough to exercise your pooch, but this will vary depending on the type of dog you have.

If your dog is not fit, start the new program slowly and work up your dog's fitness level gradually. The loyal dog will never say no which means it's up to you to monitor the level of exercise your dog is suited to. For overweight dogs, older dogs and puppies, the fitness program should be structured to suit their requirements. Always consult your veterinarian for advice. A puppy is still developing, so too much vigorous exercise can damage bones and joints. Older dogs will require exercise, so gentle walks during the cooler parts of the day are ideal.

Be prepared!
Invest in a small carry bag that can be slung over your shoulder or one which clips onto your belt. This means you can carry plastic bags for picking up poo, a collapsible canvas water bag ideal for longer walks, a whistle or clicker, a few tasty (and healthy) dried treats and a ball or toy that your dog likes to fetch.

A popular exercise routine for many pet owners is to walk their dog on a leash to their local leash-free dog park or beach, or you may have to drive to the location. Some councils are now outfitting parks with dog agility courses which is great way to exercise together and practice training. Contact your local council for a list of leash-free parks in your area.

Jogging
Most dogs are not suited to jogging, but if you have a Kelpie or Border Collie, a good run is one way to give them the level of exercise they need. Fitness should be fun, however, and dogs like to stop and start, sniff the territory and mark their scent. By nature they are not inclined to jog consistently so run in bursts and then walk.

Dog's paws are susceptible and remember that you are the one wearing shoes. Check the bitumen with your hand and if it is too hot do not exercise your dog along pathways.

Fun Fitness
Dogs like routine, but walking around the block can become tedious. If you are really keen to get fit with your dog you might like to consider two fun dog sports: agility and flyball. Agility is a sequence of obstacles such as hurdles, tunnels and weave poles which the dog learns to negotiate without errors against the clock. The dog that completes the obstacles correctly within the time set will achieve a 'Clear Round'. The winner is the quickest of these dogs.

Flyball is a sport in which any dog can participate regardless of breed, shape or size. It encompasses chasing, jumping, catching and retrieving - all the things that dogs love to do. Flyball is a relay race between two competing teams. Each team has four dogs. One from each team (racing side by side) must go over four hurdles, trigger a flyball box pedal, catch (retrieve) a ball and then return over all four hurdles to the star/finish line where the next dog eagerly awaits.

Heat exhaustion
Avoid exercising your dog on very hot or humid days. Dogs cool themselves by panting and if panting does not reduce the body temperature the dog will develop heatstroke. Animals suffering from heat exhaustion will pant, lie on their side and be listless and disoriented. If you think your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion it must be cooled promptly. Put the animal in a cool and shady area. Damp it down with tepid water (never ice) and fan the animal. Contact your nearest veterinarian but do not transport the animal in a hot car. Only place it in a vehicle that has air conditioning or is cool and airy. Keep the animal damp with cool air playing over its body during the car trip. If the animal is conscious, offer cool, not cold, drinking water. Do not allow the animal to gulp large amounts of water.

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