Downtime and How to Keep Moving

Photo Credit: Ranger Gord

Sometimes your body just needs to recover. Yesterday Doggie Sensei twisted his ankle while running. This morning instead of running, Missy accompanied me on just half the route. Even when the owner is hurt the pet still has its needs that must be fulfilled, so when you have an exercise regimen with your your pet it's important to build in contingencies.

Talking half the walk is better than simply not walking at all because conditions are not optimal. Your dog will sense your slower pace and adjust. That's why they're such good partners. Keeping to your schedule will help you recover more quickly, as your mind is redirected from your injury. Your doggie can help you not think about the hurt.

This is not to say that your mind can overrule all injury. To the contrary, when you need to sit one out, you should do so you do not prolong your hiatus. The same holds true for your doggie, especially when their paws have been injured. Give them the proper care and time and you'll be back on track.

Days Off With Your Dog

Photo Credit : Chance Gardener

Many times taking time off can seem complicated. Strange isn't it? The very thing that is supposed to gain us restorative peace causes a lot of stress. For many of us the days before the vacation can be the worst days. Sticking to your routine with your family and pet makes taking a vacation seem like a sheer impossibility.

Doggie Sensei has heard that many people will kennel their dogs, since taking a pet along can add complications. While there are times when taking your dog can be inappropriate, having your pet on vacation can be THE reason why you stick to your exercise routines. Think about the walks you can take like the one pictured above. When you do this early in the morning, you have that quiet time to reset your mind and get a fresh outlook before taking your kids or wife on a hike or other activities. You stick to your routine, and prevent those extra pounds that can creep up on you when you can get off schedule.

For those of us who have young children, having the pet along can also act as a point of focus for the kids that can limit sibling squabbling. Having the dog there means that thethere is less time to pick at each other. In some cases the young ones like the familiar comfort of your dog in a new setting.

Once you return from your getaway, your morning Doggie Weight routine will still be on track and your transition back to your work schedule will not be as difficult. This makes the effort of taking your deserved vacation well worth it.