New Year, New Routine: Celebrating Walk Your Dog Month at Chestermere Veterinary Clinic
January is officially Walk Your Dog Month! While the Alberta winter might make you want to stay curled up on the couch, this month is the perfect time to kickstart a healthy routine.
At Chestermere Veterinary Clinic, we know that dog walking is about more than just a potty break. It’s a vital part of your pet’s health, as physical activity helps preserve muscle tone and joint movement, and the sights and smells provide essential mental stimulation beyond the limits of your yard.
Start with a Check-up
Not sure where to start? Start with us! Before beginning a new exercise program, it’s best to ensure your pet is healthy enough for increased activity. We can help tailor a program to fit your pet’s specific health needs, especially if they are senior or currently overweight.
Expert Tips for a Safe Walking Program
To maximize the rewards of your walks, keep these simple precautions in mind:
- Train for Success: Ensure your dog behaves on a leash. If you’re struggling with pulling or reactivity, reach out to us for behavioural resource recommendations.
- Build Gradually: Start with short, frequent walks and take rests. Build up to 15-minute periods of brisk walking, followed by a cool-down.
- The “Sniffari”: Allow your dog “sniff breaks.” Letting them enjoy their environment is just as important as the physical steps.
- Identify Always: Even in the best circumstances, accidents happen. Always ensure your dog is wearing identification tags with up-to-date information.
Navigating the Alberta Cold
A dog’s tolerance to the cold depends on their size, coat, and health. Smaller breeds, puppies, and seniors are more likely to struggle or even develop frostbite.
- Watch for Signs of Distress: Shivering, weakness, and less mental alertness are warning signs. Severe hypothermia can lead to muscle stiffness and slow breathing—if you see these, seek immediate veterinary care.
- Protect the Paws: Icy walkways are a slip hazard, and road salt can cause chemical burns. Dog boots are a great way to protect “little feet” from frostbite and sharp ice.
- Time it Right: Try to time your walks during the sunnier parts of the day rather than the frigid early mornings or late nights.
Preventing Injury and Disease
Walking carries risks, but they are manageable with a few professional habits:
- Avoid Hazards: Steer clear of ice covering water, areas with high wildlife activity, or surfaces with broken glass.
- Monitor Mobility: If your pet shows signs of lameness, difficulty breathing, or tires quickly, consult us immediately. Staggering, disorientation, or abnormally colored gums are signs of a medical emergency.
- Preventing Infectious Disease: Diseases like Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, and Rabies can spread in social settings.
- Pick up waste: Promptly dispose of poop to prevent the spread of parasites like roundworms.
- Safe Hydration: Prevent dogs from drinking from puddles, ponds, or slow-moving water.
- Limit Contact: Keep your dog from interacting with unfamiliar dogs or wildlife with unknown vaccine histories.
A Note for Professional Dog Walkers
If you provide walking services in Chestermere, you play a key role in our community’s pet health.
- Liability: Ensure you have insurance and a clear agreement with owners regarding emergency veterinary care.
- Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly between handling different dogs and keep your equipment sanitized.
- Preparedness: Always keep the contact information for Chestermere Veterinary Clinic or the owner’s preferred vet on hand.
Let’s Get Walking!
Walking is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s longevity and happiness. If you have questions about your pet’s mobility or want to schedule a New Year wellness exam, we are here to help.
Call Chestermere Veterinary Clinic today to ensure your pup is ready for the trail!
