How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Actually Need?

We all want our dogs to be happy and healthy! However, providing the best care possible is an ongoing learning experience. One issue many dog owners have is figuring out just how much exercise their faithful companions need. Not only can lack of exercise cause dogs to experience health problems like obesity; it can also lead to behavioral issues like whining and destructive chewing. If you’re dealing with any of these issues with your dog, or want to avoid them, this article is for you! Pet owners may wonder, “Can my dog get too much exercise?” Yes, it is possible for a dog to get too much exercise. Smaller breeds and older dogs are the most susceptible groups. While there aren’t clear-cut guidelines about how much is too much since it varies from dog to dog, the easiest thing to do is pay attention to your dog’s behavior. [Editor’s note: Our vet tells us to know your dog’s fitness level, and let them set the pace. Avoid exercising in hot or humid weather. If they start panting excessively or suddenly seem drained, it’s time for a break. Cool down in the shade, offer them water to drink, pour tepid (not cold) water on their paws or if possibly hose their body. Watch out for signs of heatstroke: death occurs within minutes of the dog’s core temperature reaching 110°F. If you see signs of heatstroke, get them to a vet immediately to increase their chances of survival.] This is especially important for breeds that have flat or short noses.

In addition to those specific signs, there are a few other things to keep in mind.  For breeds like Great Danes, which have narrow bodies and deep chests, it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise before or right after eating since it can lead to bloat, an often fatal condition. While younger dogs have a lot of energy, jogging generally isn’t the best option for them. Since their bones are still developing, this type of exercise can be quite hard on them. And because jogging can cause problems like hip dysplasia, the same is true for many large adult dogs. Lower impact exercise is better for these dogs.

So, How Much Exercise is Needed?

The basic range is between 30 minutes and two hours daily. Younger or larger dogs will generally fall on the higher end of this range. The same goes for intensity. While small and older dogs still need exercise, it’s best for them to stick with lower intensity options. Even when both activities are done for the same amount of time, there’s obviously a big difference between walking around the block and jogging up a steep path. And also obviously, start out slowly, increasing your pet’s fitness and exercise over days and weeks, just like you would a child or adult.

What Type of Exercise is Best?

Just like us, dogs benefit from variety. The best thing you can do for your favorite canine is to mix it up throughout the week. Keep in mind the previous guidelines we describe above. You might go to the park one day and then play with your dog in the yard the next day as you’re going through your organic lawn care routine. Also, don’t be afraid to try out different approaches. Since there’s no doubt that you know your dog quite well, you’ll be able to gauge how they react and feel about different types of exercise. It will also give you even more opportunities to have fun with your pooch!

Michelle Rebecca is an aspiring writer, blogger, and animal lover. She’s the new mom to a rescued German Shepard mix who she loves more than anything!  She loves that blogging gives her the opportunity to voice her thoughts and share advice with an unlimited audience.

Tessa the Blind Dog Who Couldn’t Walk Finds Happily Ever After

While it’s no surprise that we believe every pet deserves to be safe and cared for, sometimes we’re touched by a story that is especially inspiring and serves to reminds the world of exactly how amazing animal rescue is.  Tessa’s story does just that. You remember Tessa. She was a blind and without the ability to walk. But with a little tender love and the support of this wonderful community of animal lovers, Tessa is starting a new chapter in her life.  And this chapter is one that is destined to be filled with happiness, as Tessa has officially been adopted into an awesome family that is just as thrilled to be a part of her life as she is to be saved.

Here’s a note we received from Annie Hart, Executive Director of Bill Foundation who spearheaded the effort to save this angel:

On January 10th of this year, I posted on Facebook and asked for our village’s help rescuing a blind dog named Tessa from the shelter. Little did I know that this rescue would not only change the life of a dog, but an entire community.

The moment I rescued Tessa I knew there was more going on with her than just being blind. She was a shell of a dog; confused, painfully scared and she wouldn’t stand up or take even one step. We discovered that Tessa had hydrocephalus (fluid in her brain) and vertical nystagmus, which caused her to feel dizzy. Her prognosis was quite poor and her doctors didn’t think she would ever walk again, let alone regain her vision.

With the support of our village, we took a leap of faith, began medical treatment and physical therapy, hoping to help Tessa find a way to live.

Every progressive “step” Tessa took, our village cheered her on. They prayed for her to health and the celebrated each milestone.  When her video came out, they helped us by sharing it far and wide for more than three months hoping that one share would lead to that perfect family.

On May 3rd, Tessa and I attended a “Specially Abled Pets Day” event held by our friends at Two Hands Four Paws. There we met a couple, who had seen Tessa’s video through a newsletter someone had sent them. There was an instant connection between Tessa and the woman, and not just because they had matching hair.

As they left, I turned to my friends and said, “Gosh, I really hope they fill out an application”. My friend agreed, they were amazing and might be exactly what we had been waiting for.

They did fill out the application and it was perfect for Tessa. A retired couple with 2 dogs and a cat of their own, plenty of time to dedicate to caring for Tessa, along with past experience caring for a special needs dog. So, Tessa and I began “dating” this new family and for the past few weeks we have slowly been integrating her into their home. Baby steps so that the transition is easier on Tessa.

Well, Today is the big day! Tessa will officially begin her new life with her adoptive family!

Thank you to everyone who has shared Tessa’s story and all those who donate to Bill Foundation. It is because of you that our rescues are possible. And a very special thank you to Adopt-a-Pet.com for their partnership in finding homes for abandoned animals and for helping us share Tessa’s story with the world.

While it took a village to find Tessa a home, it took a very special blind dog to bring this village together.

We are so happy for Tessa and her new family!  Thank you to everyone who helped Tessa by watching her video, sharing her story, or donating to an animal welfare organization that helps animals like Tessa be given the chance they deserve. And of course, thank you to Annie Hart for turning Tessa’s life around and for sharing a story that will inspire others!

 

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Preparing Your Dog for His / Her First Trip to the Groomer

By Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com. If your pooch is starting to look a little ruff around the edges maybe it’s time for a trip to the dog groomer. There are a few ways to help make this experience with your dog or puppy go smoothly. First brush your dog at home, and if you can, give them a bath. Next, be sure the groomer can handle a first time doggie. Make sure you understand how the groomer handles your dog to ensure there isn’t something you’re your puppy or doggie will have a problem with. For more tips continue reading here at PetGuide.com

Share This Map & Help Kansas City Dogs & Cats!

We are proud to announce that our Google Maps now covers Kansas City! Our Google Maps makes it easy to realize how many shelters and rescues work in the greater Kansas City area. Click on the pins and find out what shelters and rescues operate in that area. Then follow the links to see the pets available. It’s easy to use and easy to share.

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