Exercising doesn’t always come easily — in fact, lack of motivation is one of the most common reasons people don’t participate in physical activity. But having a partner to work out with can make all the difference, especially when that partner brings a positive attitude and a wagging tail to the table. Here’s why dogs make great workout buddies, and how you can start exercising with your pup to give you both a healthier leash on life.
5 Reasons why dogs make great workout buddies
There are several reasons to exercise, and they’re as true for you as they are for your dog. Better physical health, maintaining a healthy weight, and increased mental well-being are just a few benefits that physical activity offers for humans and canines alike. Here’s how you and your dog can keep each other accountable and motivated throughout your healthy lifestyle journey.
1. Dogs are energetic
When’s the last time you saw a human jump for joy at the sight of their running shoes? In contrast, a dog’s reaction to seeing their leash is usually a mixture of unbridled excitement and elation. Depending on the dog, this energy can last anywhere from several minutes to the duration of your workout together, lending you the support and motivation you need to get going.
2. Pups set the pace
Dogs are very good at setting a steady pace. Once they find their stride, you can count on your pup to help set the pace for your workout. Match your cadence to canine’s, and find a familiar rhythm in the wag of their tail or the pattern of their panting. This natural soundtrack to your workout is soothing and motivating, and gives you a focal point if you start to lose steam.
3. Safety in numbers
Running or walking alone isn’t just dull, it can be dangerous. Depending on when and where you do your workouts, there can be concerns of various types. The presence of your pup can provide peace of mind, as their ears and noses are much more sensitive than a human’s. Your dog will be able to sense trouble before you do, and will help deter unwanted encounters.
4. Their schedule’s always open
No more waiting for schedules to align with your human workout buddy — your dog is always available. Since your dog is part of your household, your schedules are already in sync with each other, making exercising together even easier. Dogs are also habit-forming animals, so by setting a schedule to workout with them, they’ll come to expect it. Keep their leash in its designated spot, and try to workout at the same time each day. You’ll soon find your pup gravitating toward their leash as your regular exercise time nears to help keep you accountable.
5. Good vibes only
You’ll never hear a complaint or criticism from your canine, only quiet companionship and confidence. The positivity from your pup is often one of the greatest motivators you can find. No more listening to a personal trainer yell instructions to you — let your dog do the barking.
Dog breeds that make the best workout buddies
Exercise benefits all breeds of dogs, but depending on your level of intensity, you may need to modify your workout to your dog’s ability. For example, dogs with short legs like Dachshunds or Corgis won’t be able to run an entire 5k with you, but they can work up to walking one. Similarly, dogs with “smooshed” faces like Pugs, Bulldogs, or Boston Terriers have restricted airways and shouldn’t be pushed to the point of exertion. Puppies and senior dogs also may not be able to keep the pace with you over long distances.
If you’re looking to adopt a dog and want to incorporate them into your active lifestyle, consider these breeds:
High energy, athletic dog breeds
- Australian Shepherds
- Border Collies
- Boxers*
- Dalmatians
- Doberman Pinschers
- English Springer Spaniels
- German Shepherds
- German Shorthair Pointers
- Greyhounds
- Jack Russell Terriers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Siberian Huskies
- Vizslas
- Weimaraners
*Boxers are a brachycephalic breed, which means they are “snub nosed” and more prone to respiratory distress.
Other breeds may be up to the task of exercising with you, including mixed or smaller breeds. The most important thing is that your pup has received a clean bill of health from your veterinarian, and that you modify workouts as needed to adjust to their ability.
Exercises to do with your dog
So, you’ve decided to be disciplined with your dog and commit to working out — but what disciplines can dogs join you in? The most common exercises that owners take their dogs along for include running and walking, but there are some other activities you can include your dog in. Consider these dog-friendly workout ideas:
- Hiking
- Swimming*
- Kayaking, rowing, or canoeing*
- Yoga
- Cycling
- Dance
*Make sure your dog is fitted with an approved life jacket during these activities.
If you’re heading outside for a workout, choose a time of day where the temperature is moderate. Never exercise outside with your dog in the middle of the day during the hotter months — this can cause heat exhaustion or even heat stroke in dogs, especially breeds with heavy coats. So what temperature is too hot for your dog? When the real-feel temperature reaches 85°F or higher, it’s best to stick to indoor activities. And be sure to check the pavement with the back of your hand before you set out with your dog — if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
Take plenty of water and offer your dog small sips every 15-20 minutes during activity. Plan their mealtimes at least 2 hours before exercising, and wait at least an hour after a workout to feed them to prevent digestive upset. Be sure to take cleanup bags with you — what goes in, must come out, and exercise often stimulates the intestines.
Omlet and your dogs
There’s nothing quite as sweet as that post-workout nap. Give your pup a comfy dog bed to sink into, or a supportive dog crate to retreat to after their cool down. Offer them nourishment and hydration in stylish dog bowls to help them feel their best, so they’re always ready for adventure. With Omlet, you and your dog can enjoy a lifetime of companionship together — both at home and on the go.
This entry was posted in Dogs on June 9th, 2021 by juliakretzner
Whether in our gardens or in our homes, plants not only enhance the overall appearance of a space, but they can also help boost moods, increase creativity and reduce stress. But did you know some plants can actually be toxic to your cat if ingested?
While it’s important to know which plants could pose a danger to your furry friend, it is still possible to have green decor and healthy felines coexisting in the same place. So before you forego an indoor nature collection on account of whiskers, browse these 10 cat-friendly plants that are safe for your kitty and look good in your decor.
Why do cats eat plants?
Cats are curious. And just like little children, they often explore new things with their mouths. But if cats are obligate carnivores, or mostly meat eaters, why are they munching on my houseplants? There are several reasons, actually, and it’s best to start with their natural roots.
While most cats are domesticated from the wild, they still possess some innate, instinctual behaviours from their feline ancestors. Eating plants is very common among the cat population and is often something they do to explore textures, help pass a hairball, or even to just increase some nutrient value in their diet. But one of the most common reasons cats eat plants is out of sheer boredom.
You can solve the instinctual desire by only buying cat-friendly plants to keep your cat safe. And having a few sturdy and durable cat scratchers around will help as well. With a cat scratcher like Stak designed by Omlet, you will not only keep boredom at bay, but your cat will be entertained for hours!
10 non-toxic plants for cats
Grasses
If you were to give your cat a grass menu, they would likely choose “clippings from this morning’s mow” or a side helping of “dew-covered sprigs”. When it comes to grasses, most cats are not that picky. But in order to be sure your nursery doesn’t send them to the emergency, stick to harmless grass options such as bluegrass, lemongrass and purple fountain grass.
Ponytail palm plants
Known as the most patient of all houseplants, the ponytail palm plant is both easy to care for and easy on your cat. While it looks (and sounds) like a tropical greenery, this drought-tolerant plant is actually a succulent. In order to maintain its non-needy nature, the ponytail palm stores water in its trunk and produces long curly leaves that look like ponytails. So not only is it safe for your kitty to be around, but it gives your room a calming, tranquil look as well.
Catnip/Nepeta cataria
The only thing your cat loves more than you is catnip. And as luck would have it for you both, this euphoric herb plant is 100% safe for your cat to be around and nibble. Part of the mint family, catnip omits a scent that most cats find simply irresistible. Whether you have it in a planter in the corner or throughout your outdoor garden, cats are wildly attracted to this fragrant plant. In fact, it’s completely normal if you catch your kitty rubbing up against, rolling on or just straight up licking your catnip plant. They literally can’t help it.
Spider plants
When you see a spider in your house, you can usually count on your frisky feline to catch the pesky insect. But what if that spider is on a spider plant? No problem! This cat-friendly plant is completely non-toxic and 100% safe for your kitty to be around. And unlike the legged version, spider plants are easy to care for and simple to maintain.
Prayer plant
If your decor is one that invites a bolder, more colourful style, then a prayer plant may be just the houseplant you, and your cat, need. With striking leaves of striped white and pink colours, these cat-friendly plants are completely safe for your furry friend to be around.
Christmas cactus
While the name may imply that it is only a holiday plant, the Christmas cactus is actually available year-round and is also non-toxic for your cat. More of a succulent than a plant, this feline-friendly cactus produces beautiful pink flowers that are not harmful to your kitty if ingested. And bonus, they add bright colour to your greenery decor.
African violet
One of the most popular flower-blooming houseplants that is also safe for cats is the vibrant African violet. Due to their low maintenance care, many people with, and without, green thumbs like these plants as they add beauty to their space without a lot of requirements. And you can feel at ease knowing the flowers and leaves are not harmful to your cat if nibbled on.
Callisia turtle
This vine-like succulent plant is a great choice for your indoor garden decor as it mystically spills over pots with dense leaves and small white flowers. A unique addition to any home decor, the callisia turtle is also completely feline friendly. In fact, if your cat does eat it, don’t worry – this plant is full of nutrients. Rich in minerals and calcium, the callisia turtle can actually benefit your cat’s digestive system.
Banana tree
Looking to go bigger with your green decor? Then look no further than a banana tree – a dramatic accent plant that is also cat-friendly. The central stems of this tropical plant are often used in human cuisine, so it comes as no surprise that it has also been deemed a safe plant for felines to feast on as well.
Goldenseal
Herb plants are always a great choice when looking for cat-friendly greenery as most are harmless for your cat. Goldenseal sits at the top of the cat-safe list as it’s not only non-toxic but can also be used to treat everyday ailments. Used as a disinfectant for wounds and other sores, goldenseal is known for its soothing and healing properties. In fact, some studies show that, if ingested, goldenseal can help treat ulcers or high blood pressure in your cat as well.
Plants to avoid for your cat
The best defence against your cat’s health is a knowledgeable offence of which houseplants are toxic and potentially dangerous for your furry friend to be around. So if you have a cat in your home, you should be aware of which plants to stay away from to safeguard your cat’s health.
While this list is not exhaustive, some of the more popular indoor and outdoor plants to avoid are: Dieffenbachia, lily of the valley, lily, ficus, azalea, anthurium, daffodil, oleander, holly and mistletoe, poinsettia, yuccas, amaryllis, tulips, and sago palm.
But when purchasing any plants that your cat may be around, it’s best to do your research ahead of time to avoid any doubts or dangers. You can gather information on the internet or consult your vet or the nursery seller for advice as well. And remember, if your cat does ingest or come into contact with any of these toxic plants, you should immediately call or take your cat directly to the vet to seek help.
Omlet and keeping your cat safe
Cats are curious by nature and often unafraid to explore. And while no pet company can stop the inquisitive and common behaviour of plant-eating among cats, we endlessly ask how we can help you both stay safe and happy. With the Stak cat scratcher to end kitty boredom or the Catio outdoor cat enclosure that allows your feline to be in nature safely, we create the products that keep your cat out of trouble.
This entry was posted in Cats on June 9th, 2021 by emmaibadioune
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