Dogs can make wonderful companions for anyone, especially seniors. Being a dog guardian does involve some responsibility, but it's also a source of great joy. Dogs can be fun to play with, to pet, to go for a walk with or just to hang out with at home. Plus, of course, dogs will alert you in case there is any intruder. Dogs can also help you or your senior to get fit. Most fitness professionals will tell you that having a fitness buddy is very helpful when you want to develop healthier exercise habits. Well, your dog can be your fitness buddy. Here's how seniors can improve their fitness routine by having a dog:
Lightly Active Fitness Level
At the most basic level, having a dog can help you or your senior to become more active. This is because having a dog involves various daily activities such as feeding, grooming, walking, etc.
- Most dogs will need to be fed twice a day. But some are fine with being fed just once a day.
- At the same time as feeding, you'll also need to refill their water bowls.
- You'll need to take the dog out and around the block so that they can do their business.
- It also helps if you brush them once a day so that they don't shed too much.
These things can be helpful to seniors who are not very mobile. It can keep them moving a little bit throughout the day.
Moderately Active Fitness Level
As a senior, if you're already more than capable of doing all the activities mentioned in the light activity level, then you can move on to a moderately active fitness routine. This involves taking your dog for longer walks. This is an activity that your dog will also enjoy. Here's what you need to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have the right kind of leash. Your veterinarian can tell you which kind of leash will be best for your dog.
- If you're taking them for a walk in an area where there are a lot of other dogs, then it's best if the leash is not too long. You don't want your dog to get into fights with other dogs and be out of your reach.
- You can also train the dog to walk close to you and reward good behavior with treats.
- Don't forget to take water for yourself and your dog if you are going for a long walk. Some healthy snacks for yourself and your dog are also a good idea.
- Be sure to check the weather before starting your walk. It's not a good idea to exert yourself when it's too hot or too cold, and the same goes for your dog.
Very Active Fitness Level
If you're already moderately active with your dog and you feel ready to take things up a notch, you can up your fitness routine and start running with your dog or take them to a dog park.
If you plan to run, then make sure, once again, that you have the right kind of leash and carry some water and treats for yourself and your dog. It may take some time to get your dog acclimatized to running next to you and not getting distracted. However, if you keep rewarding them for good behavior and gently correcting them when they get distracted, then they will eventually get trained.
You can also take your dog to a dog park which is generally a big space for dogs to frolic and play, either with or without leashes. You can also play catch with your dog within this space.
If you need help with services for seniors in Orangeburg, Ridgeville, Summerton, and the surrounding areas, Senior Helpers can help. Contact us to learn more about how seniors can increase their level of fitness routine with dogs and other ways to help them.