inmac

If you have decided to undertake a fitness regime and head for the road, you may find that it is easier with a partner.  However, finding a partner to jog or run with, who has an equal amount of commitment as you do, can be a pretty difficult task.

However, you can rest assured that one partner that will not let you down is your faithful dog.  He will usually be ready, willing and able to assist you in shedding your holiday weight that you may have packed on, or to assist you in maintaining the physique that you have worked so hard for to achieve.

However, before you reach for your running shoes and dog leash, some certain things need to be taken into consideration and remembered.

Your dog may be as out of shape as you are, so it is important to begin slowly and gently.  Before you take your dog on your first jog or run, it is essential to have him thoroughly checked over at the vet to ensure that his heart, lungs, and joints are in good working order.  It may be wise for you to have a check up also, if you have not undertaken any form of exercise for some time.

• Begin slowly and build up your dogâs endurance.
• Always undertake warm up exercises by walking first.  This can then be followed by a short jog or run.  Let him cool down with a walk at the end.
• Keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort.  Dogs are eager to please their owners and they will be delighted to run with you.  However, unlike you, they will completely block out or even be unaware of any pain.  If you see that your dog is tiring or struggling, then walk.
• Always be aware of the weather conditions.  Dogs cannot cope with heat as well as you can.  Therefore, they are at a greater risk of heat stroke or dehydration during warm weather.  It is always advised to go running early in the morning, or in the evening, to avoid the hottest time of the day.
• Ensure that you take enough water on your run for both you and your dog.

Another important factor when running with your dog is to be aware of the ground that you are running on.  Remember that your dog does not have a pair of jell-filled shock absorber system shoes on his feet; he is running on his own pads.  If your dog has been indoors for a period of time, then the likelihood is that his pads will have softened.  Therefore, he will require time build his endurance by walking for a distance, then some running, followed by walking again.  The time that you spend running can be increased once his pads have toughened.

Pad wear is the most common injury in dogs.  If your dog shows any signs of soreness or has difficulty getting to his feet, then you will need to take him to the veterinarian.  The veterinarian can provide you with a spray for your dogâs pads called Pad Guard.  This spray forms a protective barrier that will help the dogâs feet.

It must also be remembered that the dogâs pads are part of his perspiration system.  A dog cools down by panting and sweating through the pads.  If the ground is hot it will not be possible for him to cool down as much as when he is on cooler ground.

If, when you are one your run, you see signs that your dog is overheating, then it is vital to stop immediately and cool him down slowly with cool or tepid water.  The signs of overheating include:

• Diarrhea
• Excessive panting
• Increased heart rate
• Increased salivation
• Red gums
• Vomiting
• Weakness

Always ensure that your dog is kept on a leash, not only for his protection, but for the protection of others also.  It is possible for even an obedient dog to suddenly greet another animal or person.  If this were to happen in a high traffic area, then the consequences could be fatal.

Follow these simple steps and you can both enjoy a healthier lifestyle.

Tags: running with your dog