This month is Pet Wellness Month, a perfect opportunity to assess and improve your furry friend’s physical and mental fitness. To kick the month off, we’re sharing some creative ways to exercise with your pet, ensuring they are happy and healthy!
Hiking
Change up your walk routine by taking your pet for a hike! Hiking can be a great way to get your pet physically and mentally active. Exploring new environments and new scents, plus observing wildlife is a great way to engage your pet’s senses. Exploring new trails can also help build your pet’s confidence. As your pet learns how to traverse difficult paths and solve challenges along the way, they will trust themselves and you more and more.
Maximize the enjoyment you get from this experience by taking safety precautions and preparing in advance for the hike. Check the trail’s regulations, bring enough water, pack essential supplies like poop bags and first aid, and ensure your pet is protected against ticks, fleas, and any other potential hazards you may encounter on the trail.
Dance Routine
Dancing with your pet is not only great for bonding but also for building your pet’s mental and physical agility! Take some time to teach your pet new tricks, such as spinning and jumping, and combine them into a routine set to music.
Creating a routine is a fun and unique way to work on training your pet while getting some exercise. The training sessions become moments of shared learning and communication that work to strengthen your relationship with your pet. Plus, it makes for a great party trick!
Hide and Seek
Hide and Seek is not just a childhood game—it can also be a delightful and mentally stimulating activity for your pet. While they may not comprehend the rules of the classic game, you can easily modify the rules to keep your pet entertained and engaged.
Hide and Seek taps into your pet’s instincts, especially their sense of smell and curiosity. Hide your pet’s favorite treats or toys around the house or yard and encourage your pet to find them using their keen senses of smell or sight.
If there’s nice weather, you and your pet can enjoy some fresh air by taking the game outside and hiding toys and treats around the yard. If it’s too rainy or cold, hide toys and treats throughout various rooms in the house. This game is a great way to keep your pets occupied on days when walks or outdoor playtime may not be possible.
Pet Yoga
Practicing yoga with your pet can be a wonderful bonding experience. While pets may not perform yoga poses in the same way humans do, simply having them around will increase your joy and decrease your stress level.
While practicing poses such as Downward Dog, Cat-Cow Stretch, and Child’s Pose, your pet may be inclined to stretch with you or curl up in your lap. Make sure to enjoy the quality time spent with your furry friend to maximize the mutual benefits of relaxation.
Getting exercise with your pet doesn’t have to be boring and is one of the best ways to keep them healthy. Utilizing new or creative activities will enable you to keep your pet physically fit while also providing mental stimulation. As Pet Wellness Month begins, make sure to grab your furry friend and start exploring these exciting ways to stay active together! Don’t forget to book their next appointment at our hospital as annual checkups are another key way to keep them feeling their best!