Discover 5 key reasons why exercise for your pet is essential for optimal health
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Pets need regular exercise regardless of their age, breed, or size. Exercising doesn’t just benefit your pets; it benefits pet owners as well. Tired pets, particularly dogs, are better behaved, calm, and focused. This article discusses how exercise helps improve your pet’s health and reduces behavior problems. Keep reading to learn the essential benefits of regular exercise for your pet’s health.
Reduces Overweight And Obesity
- Obesity is not only becoming a common concern for humans but also for cats and dogs. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of obesity. Prioritize pets’ physical activity to ensure they stay in a healthy weight range. It is better to consult your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight range for your pet.
In addition, make proper adjustments in exercise and playtime according to the vet’s weight recommendations. Coupled with a healthy diet, regular exercise is the ideal solution to burn extra calories and help your pet stay fit. Start with gentle exercises and increase the duration gradually. Keep a weight tracking chart to monitor your pet’s weight.
Improves Mental Wellbeing
- Your pet’s mental health is as important as their physical well-being. In addition to improving physical health, regular exercise significantly stabilizes your pet’s mental health. Activities like regular walking provide opportunities for socialization with other animals, which can help reduce their anxiety levels.
Moreover, like humans, dogs release endorphins after physical activity, leading to improved mood. Furthermore, regular exercise helps prevent self-destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture and excessive crying. As a result, less anxious pets tend to be more content and better behaved overall.
Keeps Your Pet Fit
- Exercise is also essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health. Daily walks, for example, can keep your dog’s digestive and circulatory systems in good shape, lower blood pressure, and build muscle. Exercise can improve joint health and contribute to healthy bones.
Pets who stay active have healthy bowel movements and reduced risk of constipation or urinary tract infections. Making exercise a regular part of your pet’s routine can help ensure their long-term health and well-being.
Prevents Behavioral Problems
- Regular exercise prevents behavioral problems in pets, especially in dogs. Dogs get bored easily when left alone in the house for extended periods. This leads to behavioral problems like digging holes, chewing furniture, and excessive barking.
Exercise provides a way for your pet to burn off excess energy, helping them to release pent-up frustration and ultimately preventing destructive behavior. In addition, activities like fetch and agility training can provide the necessary mental and physical stimulation for pets.
How Much Does A Pet Needs To Exercise?
While some form of physical activity is essential for all pets, the exercise duration your varies based on age, breed, and overall health. For instance, puppies have additional energy that they need to expend. Therefore, puppies need several short walks throughout the day to help them burn off their energy.
For other pets, the exercise duration can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours per day, depending on their type and breed. However, individual pets may have unique exercise needs, so it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the optimal amount and type of exercise for your pet.
At Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center, we provide comprehensive pet care. Contact us to get precise exercise guidelines for your pet. We have the experience and technology to handle all your pets’ healthcare needs. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available. Call us at 434-971-9800.
