Everyone knows that exercise is a must - it's key to a healthy, long, and happy life. It's also one of the hardest things to be consistent about, at least for Rusty and I.
During the holidays is the hardest time to keep up with exercise, and also the most important time, if you ask me. With company around, there's an added level of excitement and of goodies. My dog felt the stress as much or more than I did, and the total lack of exercise was certainly a culprit.
My poor dog got the backseat during this Christmas season - and of course, as much as we like to think they love Christmas with their stockings and presents, I know he doesn't understand how these days were any different from the previous. I didn't realize how much he'd missed his exercise, however much he actually gets, until I took him for a walk yesterday.
He's usually pretty decent on a leash so I often use the extendable ones. I know, there's been a lot of fuss over these leashes. In my opinion you can't ban them because some people with misbehaving dogs have used them irresponsibly. So I happily take mine out on a regular basis. But I'm off on another subject, and who wants to open that can of worms?
Instead of walking in his normal manner, he decided to be a yo yo. By that I mean he'd come to me, and then sprint to the end of his leash. It drove me nuts! However, when I really thought about it, I realized that in fact it was my fault. Perhaps I drove him nuts as well.
I struggle to give my dog the exercise he needs. We had started the C25K running program, and I intend on doing it this spring. But till then, what of all the days between? My own exercise plan involves some indoor exercise to build strength - that way all by bones stay where they're suppose to be when I work on running this spring. But as for Rusty, I'm not sure what to do. I've taken him with my bike, but with the winter weather I think it could be dangerous. Ice + dog + bike + clumsy me = not such a good picture.
I know some jumping exercises would be good, but I only know a few. Rusty and I have also added to our trick list. We are now doing jump roping which is great for exercise - but not enough for an aussie.
I've recently heard of a school that allows dogs in their field, and thought some Frisbee might be in store for us. I was wishing that the trails would be open, but I'm sure they'll be muddy most of the winter, and if they're frozen it's a little cold to be out!
So on goes the search for exercise. I highly doubt there will ever be a perfect answer, but any ideas would be appreciated!
