Real Pets in London Magazine

year-round activity
Dogs require regular daily exercise and attending to this encourages dog owners to be truly active at
least twice every day with a simple WALK! It takes little effort for owners to walk their dogs on a
sunny day, but a different attitude often emerges on cold wintry days when most would rather stay indoors
hibernating. Those walks can be as invigorating or gentle yet relaxing as one wishes, resulting
in a healthier lifestyle for both animal and owner! After work in colder weather, conscientious dog
owners don warm mitts, toque, jacket and boots to hit the outdoors with their pups! The same holds
true for wet weather as owners, dressed for the conditions, head outdoors to expend their own pent
up energies with rambunctious dogs.
early risers
Many dog owners enjoy a refreshing early start to their day with a brisk walk with Fido before their
workday begins. This early morning walk will be a great kick start to your morning – even more
effective than your first cup of coffee! It gets you moving, your heart rate rises and depending on
how quick your pace, you can even work up a sweat before hitting the shower as a welcome start to
your workday.
SOCIAL Time
Socializing with other dog owners during your walks is of enormous benefit, either one-on-one, or in
an organized group activity! Dog walks provide a great way to make new friends, socialize your pet,
while getting in some vigorous exercise all at once!
Challenge yourself
Returning to the same paths or streets can become tedious and less interesting. Simply changing
your routes often, encourages you to walk for a longer time since you made the effort to go there! As
well, different routings provide owner and dog opportunities to extend that walk for longer
distances, increasing endurance and overall good health. For variety, owners might wish to choose
scenic routings which provide both owner and dog more challenging terrain, trails with hills and
rocks that work unused muscles! What a great feeling of accomplishment as the daily stresses are
shed in a vigorous climb!
Relax
Dog walks provide a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of daily stress with a happy companion
alongside. Some people prefer to meditate as they walk while absorbing the quiet tranquility of
nature around them. For others, getting lost in an audio story or article while walking is of immense
value as dog and owner walk off pent up energies of the day. Either way, walking your dog can
provide that much needed mental and physical activity needed to face tomorrow! Walking is a
win-win situation for both animal and owner!
Written by: Danielle Guetter