EXERCISE

Regular exercise is as important for our pets as it is for us.  The type of exercise that you should give your companion depends upon the age and the ability of the animal.  Incorporating exercise into your daily routine is also one of the best ways to spend quality time with your furry friend.  Below are a few ideas of how you can easily provide exercise for your pet.

            Daily exercise is recommended for your dog unless the weather is inclement (very hot or very cold) or he or she has a medical condition which limits activity.  If your canine companion does have a medical condition, speak to your veterinarian regarding what is acceptable in terms of exercise.  Remember that obese dogs will not be able to complete the same activities as athletic dogs.  Be sure to watch your pet for signs of discomfort or fatigue when exercising them.  If he or she seems very tired or is panting heavily, stop and allow a period of rest.  Always provide clean water for your pet when you are doing any type of exercise so that dehydration does not become an issue.  Some fun types of exercise for you and your dog can include:

• Hiking - Be sure to map out your trail ahead of time so that you don't get lost.  Bring lots of water for both you and your companion and take frequent breaks to drink.  Don't let your dog drink out of any stagnant ponds or puddles.  Drinking fast running water from a stream or river is usually okay.  Allow enough daylight hours so that you don't get lost in the woods at night.  Make sure that the distance is acceptable for both you and your dog.
• Running - Most dogs love to run and it can be fantastic exercise for both of you.  Be sure to start out at a brisk walk so that you both have time to warm up.  When you first start this type of exercise with your dog, begin by jogging.  If your companion seems comfortable and is not fighting for breath, increase your pace.  Stick to safe terrain - if it is icy out, walk instead.  Be sure to carry water for both of you and stop frequently to drink.  Allow five or more minutes of brisk walking at the end of your run as a cool down period.
• Long, Brisk Walks - If you and/or your pet are not interested in jogging or running, try taking brisk walks around your neighborhood.  Bring water for both of you and make frequent stops to drink.  
• Frisbee, Fetch, Etc - Most dogs love to play games that involve chasing anything that you might want to throw for them.  The tricky part may be teaching your pal to bring the object back to you.  This type of activity is especially good for kids and dogs.  Be sure that the object that you are throwing does not go into the street where your pet might be in danger of following it.
• Swimming - Swimming is the perfect exercise for any dog who loves the water.  It is easy on the joints and uses all of the muscles of the body.  If you live near a dog-friendly swimming area and your companion is up for it, do it!  You can also incorporate a fetch game in the water to keep your friend moving. 
• Doggy Day Care - If your dog is good with others, day care is an exceptional way to provide stimulation and exercise for your dog.  It usually costs about $20 a day for your average day care and one day of this type of interaction will tire your friend out for three!  It is totally worth the money.  Most day care centers open early and stay open late so that you can drop off and pick up around your work schedule.  Check your local yellow pages or ask other dog owners in your area for reputable day cares near you.

CATS

            Cats that go outside on their own usually find their own exercise.  If your cat is strictly indoors, you should offer them exercise in other ways.  Interactive toys that keep cats running and jumping are ideal.  This keeps your feline friend from getting bored as well as keeps them active.  Some fun cat exercise activities include:

• "Fishing" - There is a great cat toy available (or you can make one) that is a toy at the end of a small fishing pole.  Most cats love these!  You can swing it around and they will run and jump after it for as long as you can keep it up.  Be sure to put this one away after you're done playing so that the string does not become a choking hazard for your cat.
• Fetch - Lots of cats can learn to play fetch.  Usually a small balled up piece of paper is a perfect throwing tool because it is noisy, light and easy for a cat to pick up in its mouth.  Once cats get used to this game, you can crinkle a piece of paper and they will come running to join the fun. 
• Climbing - If you have the room in your home, purchase or build a large "fort" for your feline friend to play on.  The flat areas of these towers are usually covered with carpet and the poles with rope.  Rub some catnip on it for a special effect.  These also make great scratching posts and high spots where your kitty can nap.  Make sure that they are sturdy and weighted at the bottom so that they don't fall over and cause injury to your cat or your other furniture.  
• Chase - An easy way to get your fuzzy friend to play chase is to simply tie a long shoelace to your belt loop.  As you move around the house, so will your cat.  Just be careful that you don't trip over or step on your little companion.

Regardless of how much time you can spend exercising with your pet, remember that even a little bit of exercise is better than none at all.  If you have any questions about what form of exercise is appropriate for your companion, speak to you veterinarian.