We all know how important it is for humans to stay active throughout our lives to remain healthy and fit. The same is true for our beloved pets. Pet obesity is a problem that can be avoided with regular exercise activities that stimulate both the pet's mind and body. Without staying active, your pet may be at risk for serious problems later on in life. A lethargic pet is an unhealthy pet. So, it is up to pet owners to be proactive in keeping their pets healthy. A healthy and fit pet is a happy pet. There are many activities that both you and your pet can participate in that have mutual benefits. These fun exercises allow you to bond with your pet and burn calories at the same time.
Disc Throwing
Have you seen a dog chase down a frisbee or flying disc at the park and leap magnificently in the air to snag it? Now it is time for you and your dog to enjoy this activity as well. Grab that old Frisbee you have lying around and give your canine companion some serious fun. Dogs love chasing flying objects around because of their natural instinct. After your furry friend comes back to you to return the disc, run to the spot where your dog trapped it and throw it again. You can repeat this as many times as you wish.
Stair Climbing
Find yourself a safe staircase, perhaps in your house or at your local school bleachers. Make sure to leash your pet and stay beside him/her as the both of you begin stair climbing. It is up to you how fast you want to climb up and down the stairs. Sprinting at a safe speed will provide a great workout for both you and your pet. If you notice any signs of exhaustion, stop or take a water break. You can also change the way you go up and down the stairs - sideways or diagonal.
Follow the Leader
An obstacle course is a fantastic way to stimulate your dog both physically and mentally. Find objects like cones, branches, chairs, or balls and set up an obstacle course in your yard somewhere. As you go through the course, your dog will follow and jump around the obstacles. After doing a couple of runs, give your dog a treat. The more varied and elaborate you make the course, the more fun both of you will have.
Walk Your Dog
All good dog owners know the importance of taking their companion for a walk at least once a day. Regular walks play a major role in your dog's health and well being. There are mutual benefits for a 20-30 minute walk around your neighborhood or local park. The longer and faster the walking is, the more calories you and your dog will burn.
Tug-Of-War
In order to build muscle you need resistance. Humans normally train to build muscle by lifting weights. Well how do pets, especially dogs, get to do this? A game called tug-of-war is the perfect solution. All you need is a strong rope that you and your pet can tug on back and forth. Be forewarned though that your pet may display strong tugging abilities and pull you to the ground. So be sure to wear flexible clothing that can get dirty and gloves to protect your hands.
Cat Cardio
To give your cat a jolt of physical activity, put two flashlights in each of your hands and pretend to jump rope. As the light moves all over the wall, your feline friend will jump around and try to catch it. At the same time, you are getting a workout from the jumping rope motion. This exercise activity can be done anywhere and all you need is a couple of flashlights. Make this a regular routine so both you and your cat can stay active and healthy.
Bird Hunting
Cats are predators, so we have to remember to put their hunting skills to good use. Cat toy balls are sometimes good for this purpose but this activity needs to suffice both you and your pet. Buy a cat wand toy that looks like a bird. Now the object for you as a pet owner is to pretend this wand toy is an actual bird. So wave the wand around making it look like it is taking off and landing like a bird. Try not to be shy and just flap it around. Make sure you actually mimic a bird so that your movement increases and break a sweat. However, be careful your cat does not scratch you since their excitement and intensity to get the bird increases.
For more tips and ideas, visit www.EntirelyPets.com.
