How Can Seniors Step Up Their Fitness Activity by Having a Dog?

Owning a dog has been shown to have a number of benefits, from making the owners more sociable to helping them to live longer. For seniors in South Bend, another essential benefit of having a dog is that it can keep them fit. Most dogs do need to be walked at least once a day. Plus, there are other activities that become necessary when you have a dog. Overall, you'll find that seniors who have dogs are more fit and exercise more than those who don't. Below are some ways how seniors can build a fitness activity with their dogs.

Everyday Activities

There are many everyday activities that go into taking care of a dog. You'll need to buy dog food and refill the dog's bowl a couple of times a day. Plus, the dog's water bowl will also need to be filled at the same time. And you'll need to let the dog out into the backyard or walk them a short distance once or twice a day.

All these activities will involve some movement within the home or in its immediate vicinity. They may not be enough to get the senior's heart racing. However, they will at least provide some muscular movement which can help to reduce stiffness in the joints. Additionally, taking care of a dog can also have a number of benefits for the senior, including a feeling of well-being and satisfaction.

Taking Long Walks

If the senior is mobile and fit enough to take care of the dog with ease, then they also have the option of stepping up their fitness activity by taking the dog for long walks. Of course, it's best topick a dog breed that can accompany them on these long walks. Great dog breeds for seniors include Labrador, Beagle, German Shepherd, or Siberian Husky.

As a senior, you may not be able to go for very long walks with a smaller breed of dog. However, if you have a small dog and would like to step up your routine, you can give it a shot. Sometimes, even small dogs have a lot of energy and will keep up with you on a long walk.

Just remember totake water for yourself and your dog. If you get tired, sit down on a park bench for a while and read a book. You don't have to start walking a 5K every day immediately. Start with 1K and increase your speed and duration slowly. Additionally, don't forget to get a good pair of walking shoes which will provide the cushioning your legs need.

Running and Dog Parks

If you are already comfortable taking your dog for long walks, you can also consider more strenuous forms of fitness activity such as running or taking your dog to a dog park. When it comes to running, you'll have to get a good leash for your dog. Choose one that keeps them by your side without pulling on their neck. Your vet can recommend the best leash for this purpose. You'll need a good pair of running shoes, and remember water and snacks for yourself and your dog.

Taking your dog to a dog park can also be a lot of fun for both of you. Many dog parks will allow the dog to go off-leash so that they can run around as they want and even play with other dogs. There may be a swimming area for dogs and a number of toys available for you and your dog to play with. Overall, this can be an enjoyable way to pass the afternoon and can result in greater fitness, too.

Senior Helpers of South Bend provides a number of caregiving services that will help to make your senior comfortable. From general companionship to running errands, our caregivers will do whatever is necessary to make sure your senior has the best possible quality of life. Additionally, they can also help seniors reach their fitness goals. They can walk them through short workouts or accompany them on long walks with their dogs.

Contact us to learn more about how our caregivers can help your seniors in Elkhart, Mishawaka, Notre Dame, and the surrounding areas improve their fitness activity.