Second Chance Pet Rescue Announces January is “Walk Your Dog Month”
Hello! My name is Carmel. I’m a young brindle lab mix whose New Year’s wish is a loving family and a forever home in 2015. I came to the shelter very shy at first, but I’ve learned to really like a human’s touch. I was fortunate to be taken to a foster’s home for a few days for behavior assessment, and I’m pleased to announce that I did a terrific job with the transition from shelter to home environment. You will fall in love with my very sweet and happy disposition. Contact the Second Chance Pet Rescue of Grand Lake at 918-786-7630 for more information about me and how you can adopt me or any of my other four-legged friends currently residing at the shelter.
If you are like most of us, you rang in the new year with a resolution to get in shape. And just like us, our pets were probably given a few more treats than we should have had over the holidays. With the start of the new year, it is the perfect time to start an exercise routine – for you and your pet. January is “Walk Your Pet Month.” Let’s get outdoors and get healthy together. Here are some reasons why walking your dog every day should be a priority:
- Walks provide a great outlet for pent up energy. Dogs build up energy every day. If there is no stimulating activity provided, their energy can turn your good dog into a bored dog. A bored dog tends to lead to destructive behavior, so a nice walk helps keep your dog calm and satisfied.
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Walking your dog plays a big part in training. A tired dog is much easier to train than a dog full of energy. If the walks are done properly, they can reinforce the bond between you and your dog as well as establish you as the dog’s pack leader. When walking, it is crucial that you are the one walking your dog, not the other way around. If pulling is a problem with your dog, there are many different leashes and/or collars that can help; i.e. halters, bungee leashes, Gentle Leader, etc.
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Walks are not just good for your dog’s physical health, but are just as beneficial to your dog’s mental health. If your dog could talk, he would be telling you that the smells are his favorite part! Your dog will encounter many different smells, lots of noises, and sightings. These senses can tire your pup out fast.
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Did you know that dogs are natural roamers? It’s true, and by walking it helps to fulfill their natural urge to roam. Dogs are working animals and actually have a great sense of direction. Walks only help to improve this. Many pet owners report that with regular walks their pets don’t try to bolt out the door in an attempt to roam.
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Everyone needs some social time, right? Even your dog needs a social life. Walks allow your pooch to meet and greet with people and other dogs. These encounters help build your dog’s confidence and social skills. Dogs who do not get social opportunities tend to be more withdrawn and fearful when they meet new people or pets.
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A lot of dogs have quirks or unwanted behaviors, such as chasing cars or barking at the mail man. Walks give your dog an opportunity to get the exposure needed to kick those habits. A dog who is walked more often tends to be more comfortable in different situations and around different and new things. Dogs tend to bark out of fear or curiosity. Wouldn’t it be nice if all we heard were barks of happiness?
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If you walk your dog just 30 minutes a day, you can meet the national recommendations for physical activity for yourself. It’s nice and certainly easier to get out there and walk when you have a buddy at your side.
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A common myth is that if you have a yard, you don’t have to walk your dog. We hope that you understand the importance of walking your dog with these few tips. The last tip we have for you is to always remember to take a couple of plastic bags with you to pick up after your dog.
The Second Chance Pet Rescue of Grand Lake is a non-profit, life-saving animal rescue organization Our doors remain open to rescue homeless animals only through private donations. Please help us continue our mission by mailing a tax-deductible donation to P.O. Box 451205, Grove, OK 74345 or donate electronically via its website www.doitforthepets.com.
Carol Rice
Volunteer/Second Chance Pet Rescue
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