Our dogs have loved all the extra attention they have received recently, as many of us have been working from home over the last few years.
The extra-long cuddles, the daily midday walks, and not to mention the amount of time pet parents have been home rather than gallivanting through their usual schedule, in and out of the home.
Now that many of us have returned to the office, our dogs are experiencing a significant adjustment.
Where did their people go? What happened to afternoon cuddles, midday walks, and that occasional treat from Mom or Dad’s lunch?
What are the repercussions of all this change on our dogs, mainly when midday dog walks are eliminated from their new normal? For many – behavioral changes occur, and these changes can result in stress for both the pet and the owner.
There are so many benefits of walking your dog for both your dog and you. Read more about “The Benefits of Walking Your Dog.”
Benefits Of Dog Walks For Your Dog
Your dog’s health is in your hands; without you, they wouldn’t be able to move the amount they need to ensure they get the right amount of exercise. It is our responsibility as pet owners to make sure that this is a priority. Not only do consistent walking routines promote health benefits for your dog, but they benefit you too.
Joint Health: Many dogs are at risk of weak joints, which can cause further implications in the future. Joint health is vital for mobility. If your dog’s joints cease to work, your dog will find it harder to exercise. Helping your dogs stay strong and mobile is imperative to their overall health, and movement is critical. That is why daily walking is an excellent way to ensure your dog doesn’t stay sedentary all day.
Digestive Track: Dog’s digestive tract sometimes needs some aid to ensure that it is regulated. Going on routine walks allows your dog to make the necessary urinary pit stops, especially if they are inside all day long. Regular emptying also prevents urine from festering in the bladder for too long, leading to urinary tract infections. Average dog walks and frequent bowel movements too!
When we think of the benefits of walking our dogs, health is the first that comes to mind; however, it is not the only benefit.
Did you know your dog’s behavior can improve by going for a daily walk?
Behavioral Issues: What happens when you leave your dog to its own devices? Usually, the house may look messier than usual. Of course, they have gotten into the toilet paper, dug a hole in the backyard, or maybe just peed on the sofa. But, you know, you can’t blame them.
Dog’s attention spans aren’t the longest; they tend to get bored when not occupied quickly. So taking them for a daily walk allows them to expend their energy, prevent destructive behavior and keep them at bay from running amuck.
Walking not only exercises their body but their mind as well. Dogs don’t walk mindlessly; they constantly explore their environments, creating much-needed mental stimulation.
When dogs are tuckered out, they also become better sleepers.
Nurturing Them Emotionally: Do you see the pattern? First, we have touched on physical and mental health, and now we will dive into their emotional health.
Yes! Dogs are dynamic, and they can feel and register our emotions too. When your dog comes up to you and starts whining, they aren’t just doing it for the sake of it. They want your attention, and they want to bond. They are trying to tell you something without actually telling you something.
Walking allows you to spend that one-on-one time with them, having a moment to bond significantly. You also learn a lot about your dog when you walk with them by observing their sniffing patterns, marking habits, and interactions with new sights, smells, people, and other pets.
Our dogs need human interaction just as much as physical and mental exchanges. So when your work calls you in to pack up your home “office,” you may be excited to return to your old routine. However, your dogs will not.
Benefits Of Dog Walks For You
Keeping your pets in a routine is critical. Their daily exercise, feeding times, and other activities are essential for them to feel safe, secure, and happy.
But what about you?
Simply walking your dog once a day for 30 minutes offers you numerous health benefits too.
Benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and bones (built up by walking regularly), and decreased stress.
Can’t Walk Your Dog Regularly, We Can Help You
For those pet parents who don’t have the time to keep up with their dog’s schedules, we are here to help.
Miami Pet Concierge offers various services to help balance your dog’s life. Whether walking on a treadmill, where the dog will use their brain and different body mechanics to make the machine move, or canine fitness and bodywork exercises, we can create a custom plan to increase your pup’s confidence and offer them exercise that stimulates both their body and their brain, and help eliminate any guilt or stress you may feel because your time is limited and your pets are the ones suffering.
If you think your dog can gain from our daily dog walking services, feel free to reach out to us so that you have covered their physical, mental, and emotional needs. We aren’t all superheroes, and that’s okay.
Nicole founded Miami Pet Concierge in May 2007, with a mission to provide Miami, Florida’s pet parents with personalized pet care plans based on their pets’ species, age, breed, health, and lifestyle. All while keeping their pets “happy at home.” In addition, offering pet care education for all pet owners to guide them to become great pet parents.
