exercising in heat
It’s so hot outside that birds are using potholders to pull worms out of the ground. Then I saw a dog chasing a cat, and they were both walking.
Let’s face it: no one wants to exert themselves when it’s hot and humid. Yet your dog’s happier, healthier and better behaved if he gets enough exercise. Take a look at these tips that can help you and your pupster stay in shape when the temperatures outside soar:
1. Watch early birds and night owls. Varying the timing of your usual walks can mean a significant temperature dip. If you’re early or late enough that the sun’s not shining, choose a lit area. However, walking as the sun rises gets you outside and moving at the coolest time of the day.
2. Hit the stairs. Going up and down the stairs can get heart rates up. If your dog hesitates to follow you up and down the stairs, you can encourage her with a small treat.
3. Say “yes” to balls in the house. Playing fetch or keep away with your dog will get him moving quickly.
4. Set up obstacles and hoops. Staying in the same environment can get boring. Challenge your dog with a mini indoor obstacle course. Set up pillows and a couple of the children’s hula hoops to lead your dog under, over, around and through.
5. Start a doggie scavenger hunt. Hide treats around your house, and your dog will need to sniff, hunt and work hard for them. Or try a food puzzle or two for variety.
6. Try the tread mill. Start slowly to introduce your dog to being on the tread mill. The first step may be to allow your dog to simply get on it. Another day, you may turn the tread mill on briefly. With your patience and a treat or two along the way, your dog can exercise inside on the tread mill to beat the heat.
7. Doggie daycare. Doggie daycare is available at Town N Country. When the weather’s hot, water fun days get dogs jumping and moving around a few kiddie pools. Drop by and check it out!
With a little creativity, you can vary your regular routine and exercise your dog in different ways…when you’re hot, and when you’re not!