Spring is a wonderful time of the year. We see new growth on the trees, flowers are pushing their heads out to enjoy the sunshine and the smells are amazing in the spring.
No wonder dogs simply love springtime walks the most. Considering that a dog’s nose is something like 300% more efficient than ours, imagine what they are smelling!
Besides a great chance to bond, walking your dog has so many benefits for both of you.
For you:
- Increased cardio brings good heart health
- Nature increases your sense of well-being and mental health
- Releases your “happy” endorphins
- Maintains a healthy weight
- Increases self-esteem
- Connects you with the community
- Relives boredom
For your dog:
- Heart-healthy exercise
- Smells and sites stimulate and promote mental health
- Releases endorphins
- Maintains a healthy weight
- Increases confidence
- Socializes with other dogs
- Relieves boredom
Are you seeing a trend here?
Yes, you each gain many of the same benefits when you walk together.
Sure, there are many reasons that you can come up with to skip the walk.
- Too busy
- Dog doesn’t enjoy it
- Dog misbehaves on walks
- They can play in the backyard
But both you and your “Fido” come out ahead if you commit to taking a 30-minute walk 5 times a week.
5 Tips for a safer, happier dog walk
- Plan your route, add some new streets or trails to explore
- Supervise your dog around unfamiliar dogs and children
- Pick up after your dog, we all want a clean environment
- Shorten the walks when the weather is either too hot or too cold
- Plenty of freshwater for both of you.
