Walk the Dog
Dogs are not only great companions but they can be great motivators when it comes to physical activity.
A daily walk is good for you and good for your dog but unfortunately we don't do it enough.
That's why the RSPCA teamed up with the Heart Foundation to encourage Australians to get out and get active with their best mate.
Just a 30 minute walk every day can help reduce the risk of heart disease in people and keep your pet healthy too.
Why is exercise important for people and their pets?
Physical inactivity ranks second only to tobacco smoking in terms of the burden of disease in Australia.
The health benefits of regular physical activity for humans include:
- Reduced risk of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, osteoporosis and colon cancer, as well as reduced risk of obesity and injury; and
- Physical activity has also been shown to facilitate better stress management, alleviate depression and anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, enhance mood and boost mental alertness.
For our pets, obesity is associated with a number of medical complaints including osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, liver disease and insulin resistance.
Regular exercise is vitally important for pets too and is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. Regular walking can help your dog maintain a healthy weight, build endurance and muscle tone.
Furthermore, a regular walk can make a dog very happy - they love to check out the sights and smells and will really look forward to spending this time with you. A dog that doesn't receive sufficient exercise can easily become bored or destructive.
Exercising with your pet can be great fun and helpful for you as well. There's nothing like an exercise partner who's waiting by the door with a wagging tail to keep you motivated!
