Tips and advice for exercising your pet

Tweet What type of pet do you own and how much exercise and training does it require each day?

Humans require daily exercise to help maintain healthy bones, weight and for general wellbeing to make us feel good and to have the energy required to live day to day. Pets are no different. Daily exercise will contribute to keeping your pet happy and healthy and, in most instances, help towards extending your pet’s life.

However, your pet is not capable of planning its own exercise regime so as a responsible pet owner you can make sure it has a regular exercise programme.

No question, lifestyle and work commitments can sometimes get in the way of exercise – many of us have been culprits of joining the local gym, paying monthly fees in excess of £50 and then never attending. When you’re looking after yourself you can let it pass but not when you’re accountable for another living creature.

When you cannot take your dog for a run, why not find a trustworthy dog walker to call on when you aren’t available? Perhaps your horse is kept in working stables where someone can exercise it on the days you cannot. You may have a willing neighbour or friend that can help out occasionally? Whatever your circumstances, make sure you have a back-up plan.

Just as humans can’t instantly run a marathon, pets also need to start slowly and require easing into exercise. Simple games with balls and toys count as exercise and are huge fun for both you and your pet.

If you have a rabbit, make sure you have a safe secure rabbit run. Exercise balls for gerbils and hamsters are a great way for them to safely stretch their legs around your house while in a secure enclosed environment. Indoor birds in small cages must stretch their wings, so close all the windows and doors to a room and let them fly around. If you’re a mouse lover, a wheel inside its cage is a must; you’ll find that because rodents are nocturnal animals they will play and make tunnels while you’re asleep!

Whatever your pet, there are numerous ways for it to enjoy exercise. Remember, different pets require varying levels of exercise so it is advisable to discuss the best exercise regime with your local vet.