Making sure your dog gets enough exercise, eats a proper diet, and stays at a healthy weight can ensure he lives a long, happy, and healthy life. April is Canine Fitness Month, or Active Dog Month. This holiday serves as a reminder to dog owners to make sure their dogs get enough exercise each day. Keep reading to learn more about Canine Fitness Month and find out what you can do to keep your dog healthy.
What is the History of Canine Fitness Month?
Canine Fitness Month was founded by FitPAWS, an organization devoted to bringing awareness to dog owners of the preventable issue of dog obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. FitPAWS is passionate about canine fitness and is dedicated to helping dog owners get active with their pets and avoid dangers like obesity, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, and diabetes.
What Can Dog Owners Do to Improve Their Dog’s Health and Fitness?
You can celebrate Canine Fitness Month by making a pledge to improve your dog’s health and fitness. Start by visiting your veterinarian to get a checkup for your dog. Your veterinarian can let you know if your dog is overweight, needs a new diet, or is in perfect health. Other commitments you can make to your dog’s health are:
- Going for a walk every day.
- Visiting a dog park or enrolling your dog in doggy daycare.
- Hiring a dog walker if you don’t have time to walk your dog every day.
- Feeding your dog a healthy diet and limiting treats.
- Getting a recommendation from your veterinarian for healthier dog treats.
- Engaging in active play, like fetch or hide and seek.
What Are the Warning Signs Your Dog Isn’t Active Enough?
If you know the warning signs that your dog isn’t active enough, you can adjust your lifestyle and his diet early enough to avoid health problems:
- Obesity or weight gain
- Sluggishness
- Increased restlessness or aggression
- Rough play
- Boredom
- An increase in barking or whining
- Depression
- Signs of stiff or aching joints
Make an appointment with your veterinarian today to find out if your dog is at a healthy weight or if he needs more exercise.