Pet Exercise – Helping Them Be Fit and Happy!

Welcome to another #WiseWednesday post! This week, we will be looking into how regular pet exercise is an important part of keeping them happy and healthy.

Sadly, a lot of dogs and cats are not getting the amount of exercise they need; which can lead to both health and behavioral problems.

While it can be tough to find the time in our busy modern lives, it’s not something that can be skipped! In this article, we’ll take you through just how important exercise is for our pets, the amount they need, and how we can achieve that with a daily routine.

So, let’s get started!

Why Is Exercise So Important?

The major concern that comes with a poorly-exercised pet is obesity. As we covered in a previous #WiseWednesday post, overweight pets are at a significantly elevated risk for health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. A shortened lifespan is very likely.

However, this isn’t all; on top of health problems, behavioral issues are also to be expected.

A dog or cat without a positive outlet for their energy will look to spend it in a different way. This commonly results in destructive behaviors such as chewing and scratching.

Boredom can also be a real problem; your pets need mental stimulation. Proper exercise can be a great way of keeping both their brain and body active!

How Much Exercise Does My Pet Need?

This can depend on a few factors. Primarily, the breed of your pet can have a big effect on their exercise requirements. For example, a German Shepherd has a much higher exercise requirement than a Pug!

Other factors include their age, health, and current weight.

For a good starting point, check out the breed directories at the American Kennel Club for dogs, and Vet Street for cats. Both have detailed information about the energy levels for many different breeds, which you can use to work out an exercise routine that is perfect for your pet!

Tips on Meeting Your Pet’s Exercise Requirement

Now that you have a good idea of your pet’s energy levels, it’s time to develop a fulfilling exercise routine.

For dogs, this can involve walks, play, trips to the local park, the list goes on! It’s also a good idea to mix things up and regularly add new toys into the equation, to ensure that they continue to be mentally stimulated.

As for cats, many don’t realize that they can also be trained to take walks! Taking them around the neighborhood can be an enriching experience if they are not an outdoor cat already. On top of this, it’s important that cats have plenty of toys around the house and that you actively play with them.

Try and devote some time each day to your pets. You could do a play session in the morning and evening to help break things up or do it all in one go depending on your schedule.

Exercise is Crucial for Your Pets

Cats and dogs are natural athletes, and running and playing to their heart’s content is just part of their nature. Depriving them of this need leads to nowhere good.

It can be important to remember that not only do our pets need exercise each day, but we do too! It can be very fulfilling to exercise alongside your pets, improving your health alongside theirs.

We hope this post has helped give you a great starting place for making a thorough and fun exercise routine for your pet. Remember, if your pet gets a little disheveled on their next adventure we at Groomit are always on-hand to give your pet the grooming they need!

Thank you for reading and we’ll see you next time!