Celebrate “Walk Your Dog Month” this January

There’s a magical quality to winter in Vermont. Despite the arctic conditions, Vermonters can be found out on the ski slopes, sledding down hills and building snowmen in their backyard. We’re a hearty bunch but nothing beats warming up by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa.  

Believe it or not but January just so happens to be “Walk Your Dog” month. Yes, you read that right. With the recent deep freeze, many of us are dreading every trip outdoors. After all, scraping ice off your car isn’t as fun as it may seem. However, your dog still needs a daily dose of exercise even if a “Bomb Cyclone” is in the forecast.

Regular activity is a critical part of your doggo’s physical and emotional well-being. Did you know that 45% of dogs can be classified as overweight or obese? That’s according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention. All that extra weight is not only bad for your dog’s joints but can lead to serious conditions affecting its heart, kidneys, liver and beyond.

Daily exercise is a great way to control your pup’s weight and ward off the hazardous side effects of obesity. Daily activity is also beneficial for your bud’s digestive health, keeping him in tip-top shape throughout the cold winter months.

Too cold for a walk outside? Break out your dog’s favorite toys to keep him busy and occupied all winter long. Schedule a puppy play date, introduce a game of Tug of war or give him a dental chew to wrestle with.

You certainly don’t want your dog to be stuck inside with pent up energy. Restless dogs are much more likely to engage in aggressive or destructive behavior. Whether it’s begging for attention or scratching furniture, dogs may demonstrate unruly behavior without an outlet for their energy.

Daily activity will help your best buddy expend all of his exceeds energy. Rest assured that a tired dog has less energy for all of that naughty behavior. A bonus is that any form of exercise will help your pup calm down and sleep better. 

Along with a nutritious diet and our Hip + Joint supplements, exercise will help your dog live a long and happy life. So, get out there and make the most of “Walk Your Dog Month” while you can!