Embarking on a new exercise program

For the past two weeks, Unleashed examined the nationwide problem of pet obesity and explained what pet owners can do about it.

While it’s important for owners to keep their pets in shape, pets—dogs, in particular—can actually inspire owners to improve their own fitness.

Generally speaking, dogs love to get involved in anything the owner is doing and are happy to unleash their energy outside. With a little preparation, they can be included in activities from rollerblading and jogging to ultimate Frisbee and even yoga.

Plus, once your dog latches onto exercise as part of the daily routine, you’ll have no choice but to make good on that commitment. Wagging tails and pleading eyes trump inertia every time.
So, we consulted LSU School of Veterinary Medicine orthopedic surgeon Duane A. Robinson, DVM, and surgeon Katrin Saile, DVM, for advice on safely starting an exercise program.

Choosing the right workout
Unleashed: Are all dog breeds equally suited for different forms of exercise? Can you expect to jog with your Shih Tzu or bulldog just as you could a German shepherd?
School of Veterinary Medicine: No, all breeds are not equally suited. In general, the smaller breeds, such as a Shih Tzu, probably won’t be able to jog around the LSU Lakes with you whereas your German shepherd or Labrador retriever probably can.
Size is not the only difference. Some breeds have a face or nose structure that can prevent them from breathing well. For example, an English bulldog’s nose is much shorter than a lab or a pointer. As a result, the bulldog can’t breathe as easily and can have significant breathing issues even with seemingly minor exercise.

U: How should you choose what kind of exercise to pursue?
SVM: Choose a type of exercise that fits your pet’s interests and temperament. Some dogs go crazy for a ball or Frisbee, so a toy-focused activity will keep their attention. Others are content to walk around the neighborhood at a leisurely pace. Also, be sure to select an activity that you will enjoy long-term. The more time you spend interacting with your dog doing something everybody enjoys, the more you strengthen the bond with your pet.
It is best to always start exercising pets in short time increments. That way you can see whether they are excited and able to perform a specific activity.

U: Any thoughts about doga (dog yoga)?
SVM: Actually [we] hadn’t heard of doga before [and] had to Google it. If your dog enjoys it, it might be a good activity that you can do together.

Conditions and conditioning.
U: What if your pet seems resistant at first? For example: You get ready for a bike ride, then your dog plops down and stares at you like you have lost your mind. Should you press on or gradually expose the animal?
SVM: It depends on how your pet is reacting. If your dog is frightened by the activity, it’s best not to press on. If the dog appears interested and maybe only slightly reluctant, gradually exposing your pet may work. Never force a pet to do something because it will quickly end up being a negative experience for everyone.

U: Every time you exercise with your pet, should you have a warm up and cool down period?
SVM: Unless your pet is an athlete and doing more intense exercises (e.g., agility trials), warming up and cooling down probably is not that important.

U: If you do outdoor activities, what consideration should you give to weather conditions?
SVM: Although some dogs do not like to go outside in wet weather, rain is not usually too much of a concern.
Heat and cold can be dangerous. It’s best to avoid exercising your when it is hot and/or humid outside. Dogs cannot sweat like humans and can overheat very easily. Every spring, summer and fall, veterinarians treat many Baton Rouge dogs for heat stroke, which can be a life-threatening condition.
In Louisiana, it probably doesn’t usually get cold enough for concern. That being said, dogs with short hair might be more comfortable outside in a jacket or sweater.

U: Is there anything owners should be vigilant about after exercise such as examining pads for cuts or scrapes, timing the dog’s recovery time or watching for excessive panting?
SVM: Although dogs’ footpads are really tough, they can still be injured. You want to make sure you are exercising them on safe surfaces and slowly increase both the length and intensity of their workouts.
For example: If you would like to run with your dog, don’t immediately dart off on a six-mile run. Over several weeks to months, gradually work the dog up from less than a mile to the final distance. This will help to toughen your dog’s pads and prevent them from being injured and painful. If you are running long distances, check the pads to make sure they are not being worn abnormally. Pads can also become damaged, if the ground is too hot.
If you exercise with your pet in hot weather, excessive panting can be a sign that your dog is getting overheated. Some dogs are so excited to run or play that they will not stop even though they are tired and hot. It is important to make them rest and cool off.
It’s important to avoid exercising your dog in the heat of the day in summer, wait until cooler hours—between dusk and dawn.

U: What about hydration before/during/after the activity?
SVM: Hydration is very important. You want to make sure your pet always has access to fresh clean water. If you are going on a long walk or hike or even a run, it is a good idea to bring water along for your pet. Exercising pets around the LSU Lakes is great as there are many water fountains, most of which have a dog-specific water fountain at ground level.

Specialized Training and Equipment
U: Do dogs need to have any specialized training? For example, before rollerblading with your dog, should that dog be trained to stay on your left side rather than in front or behind you?
SVM: If you are going to run or rollerblade, your dog needs to be well behaved on the leash. You also want to be sure your dog will listen to you and obey basic commands.
If your dog pulls, chases after other dogs or even cars, you’ll want to avoid high-speed activities such as rollerblading or running with your pet. In fact, you will need to be very careful and alert when walking in populated places or on busy streets. Your dog may get frightened—or excited—by another dog or a car, which can be very dangerous to both of you.

U: Any other safety considerations (such as the potential for the dog to topple you if a leash wound around your wrist or bike handle bars)?
SVM: Some people run with the leash wrapped around their waist or hand. Only do this if your dog is very well behaved and trained. It is very easy for them to pull you off balance resulting in an injury—for you and the dog.
If you have a dog that pulls on the leash, a harness or head collar may work better because they can help prevent a dog from pulling.
Retractable leashes can be quite dangerous to owners and unsuspecting bystanders. If a dog on a retractable leash becomes scared and runs around wildly, the extended cord can snag or cause rope burns. Use of these leashes should be limited to dogs that obey basic commands and walk through high-traffic (pedestrian and vehicular) areas.

U: Any ideas about equipment to make certain exercises safer such as dog walking utility belt or a springer for bikes (an attachment that keeps the dog spaced away from the wheels and to the side of the bike)?
SVM: A device like the springer may be a good option; but, your dog must be very well trained. Even a small dog can pull you off balance resulting in injury to you and even the dog.
The most important safety factor is making sure your dog is well behaved and that you can control your dog at all times. It is also important to introduce them to new activities gradually.

U: Is there anything else Baton Rouge dog owners should know before they embark on an exercise program with their furry best friends?
SVM: One big thing is taking care of your pets waste. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to pick up after your pet. There are many options available for waste bags, even ones that are biodegradable.

If you have questions about starting an exercise program with your pet, or are worried about your pet’s health contact your veterinarian for a consultation and check-up.

If you’re looking for a workout buddy or just a furry spectator, Northside Humane Society has many adoptable animals including:

Satin is a gorgeous, sweet, dilute calico with very unique white markings. This pretty girl was rescued after her stray mom had kittens under a vacant house. Satin is a little shy at first, but soon warms up to new people. Satin gets along well with other cats.

Langston is a mild mannered, happy, four-year-old English bulldog. He loves everyone and is house trained. He has skin allergies that requires a special diet and may need a monthly allergy shot.

Benny Bell was born in rescue, when his pregnant mom was saved from Animal Control. He was hand raised, so he is super sweet! He loves to play and has the cutest little white mustache.

Ricardo and his brother Reagan were in a high kill shelter and didn’t stand a chance. This little orange tabby is sweet, loving and playful. When he is held, he makes air biscuits.

Louie could be the perfect small dog. This 15-pound beagle mix is house trained, heartworm negative and a friend to everyone.

Weezey (Louise) was rescued after Northside received a tip that her owner was going to shoot the pointer mix after her puppies were weaned. Weezey is dignified and sweet-natured. She loves people, and she is very smart. Weezey is also energetic and needs a home with a fenced back yard to run. She is best suited for being an only family pet.

These pets have all been microchipped, vaccinated, spayed/neutered and FeLeuk/FIV tested. Many other adoptable cats, kittens, puppies and dogs are available at the Northside Humane Society. For more information, click here or call 964-6992.