The beginning of a New Year is usually a time for resolutions like losing weight and getting active. While most of the promises are by humans, getting our dogs into shape might be a great cross training idea.
“People and their dogs both need physical activity to fight obesity, and there are many exercises that owner and pet can do to improve their health and their relationship. Dogs, like people, reap many benefits from exercise,” according to Dr. Susan Nelson DVM, a professor at Kent State University. “There are physical and mental health advantages for the dog owner and the dog when they exercise together.”
A blanket recommendation for exercise time amounts can’t be given as exercise needs vary vastly between individuals, and factors such as age, breed, weather and general health all influence the amounts of exercise your dog will need says Dr. Nelson. Go get a vet check before heading for anything more strenuous than the daily walk.
Along with exercise, many, if not all dogs and their humans, benefit from dog training.
“I like a well-mannered dog,” says Dr. Sandra Nelson (no relation) DVM, who travels throughout Sonoma County visiting pets in homes. Dr. Nelson has referred many a client to training classes after being greeted by overly rambunctious canine clients running households.
Dr. Joel Blumberg, a veterinarian who practices in Santa Rosa, says he came to realize the importance of training after attending a recent conference at which members of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, advocated vets take a larger role in promoting training. Dr. Blumberg recently had a dog trainer give a demonstration to his staff, so they could be more knowledgeable about the benefits of training.
The APDT recommends trainers use humane methods.
These are just some of the organizations that provide dog training classes in the area.
For Petaluma:
Unleashed Dog Training
For Sonoma:
Sonoma Pets Lifeline
Dear Dr. Blumberg,
Hi, I think you took care of my tortoise, Akua – if you are the same Blumberg.
Nevertheless, a friend recommended you for cat care. I would like to know your fee for feline dental cleaning.
Thank you,
Greer Straatsma
Indeed, Dr. Joel Blumberg is one of the few veterinarians in Sonoma County who works with so-called exotics, turtles, tortoises, reptiles and birds, even backyard chickens.