Exercise Benefits
The following tip has been adapted from the article, The Many Benefits of Exercise and Play from Your Dog newsletter (published by Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine):
Daily exercise sessions benefit you and your dog. Exercise needs vary depending on the breed, age and individual traits of the dog. But it's a good idea to play catch, Frisbee or other games, and take your dog for 30-minute walks each day.
* Sufficient exercise helps reduce or eliminate common behaviors such as digging, excessive barking, chewing and hyperactivity. Dogs need physical and mental stimulation each day.
* Exercise helps prevent boredom and channels the dog's energy in a productive, acceptable direction.
* Exercise helps keep pets healthy, agile and limber.
* It reduces the incidence of digestive problems and constipation.
* It helps prevent depression.
* It's a good way to help a timid or fearful dog build confidence and trust.
* Exercise promotes healthy rest. A well-exercised dog will be sleepy instead of restless when it's time to relax or go to bed.
* And exercise is key to weight control.
A good website about canine exercise: www.dog-play.com
For more Dog Tips and other information about pet care, adoption and the work PAW does, visit our website at:
Partnership for Animal Welfare, Inc.
www.paw-rescue.org
P.O. Box 1074, Greenbelt, MD 20768