Woodland walkies
Untitled Document
Our friend Mark the vet, from pet healthcare company Bob Martin, shares his thoughts on why walking with your pet can do wonders. In a day and age where more than 80% of people in the UK live in urban areas leading hectic lifestyles, squeezing in a fitness regime and sticking to it is becoming increasingly difficult. People living in the same home often operate on different schedules and many don’t even manage to make it for a family meal around the table as often as they would like.
Our friend Mark the vet, from pet healthcare company Bob Martin, shares his thoughts on why walking with your pet can do wonders.
In a day and age where more than 80% of people in the UK live in urban areas leading hectic lifestyles, squeezing in a fitness regime and sticking to it is becoming increasingly difficult. People living in the same home often operate on different schedules and many don’t even manage to make it for a family meal around the table as often as they would like.
The benefits of physical activity in the great outdoors should not be underestimated, not only for you but for your family and pet too. Recent studies have shown that mood and mental health can be enhanced by exposure to green spaces and one of the most enjoyable and valuable experiences is to walk through beautiful woodland. As well as the added sensory experiences, relaxation and opportunity for quality family time together, there are also the physical benefits to health and well being – for you and your dog. Dog walking is one of the cheapest ways of keeping fit, not only does it help to reduce the chance of heart attack, stroke, obesity and stress, but dogs are always eager to go for a walk, so should you ever feel like putting off your walk, your dog will ensure you don’t!
The benefits of physical activity in the great outdoors should not be underestimated, not only for you but for your family and pet too.
Recent studies have shown that mood and mental health can be enhanced by exposure to green spaces and one of the most enjoyable and valuable experiences is to walk through beautiful woodland.
As well as the added sensory experiences, relaxation and opportunity for quality family time together, there are also the physical benefits to health and well being – for you and your dog.
Dog walking is one of the cheapest ways of keeping fit, not only does it help to reduce the chance of heart attack, stroke, obesity and stress, but dogs are always eager to
go for a walk, so should you ever feel like putting off your walk, your dog will ensure you don’t!
Dog walking for fitness
Did you know that in many cases dog owners are getting more exercise than fitness fanatics who pay for the gym, just by walking their pets in the great outdoors? In research conducted by pet healthcare company Bob Martin, it was found that animal lovers spend on average 48 minutes a day exercising – a total of five hours and 38 minutes a week. Compare this to the fact that almost half of non-pet-owners admit that they do absolutely no exercise whatsoever!
Did you know that in many cases dog owners are getting more exercise than fitness fanatics who pay for the gym, just by walking their pets in the great outdoors?
In research conducted by pet healthcare company Bob Martin, it was found that animal lovers spend on average 48 minutes a day exercising – a total of five hours and 38 minutes a week. Compare this to the fact that almost half of non-pet-owners admit that they do absolutely no exercise whatsoever!
• 70% of Brits think going to the gym is a chore • 86% of pet owners enjoy their daily dog walks • 75% of pet owners say dog walking is relaxing
• 70% of Brits think going to the gym is a chore
• 86% of pet owners enjoy their daily dog walks
• 75% of pet owners say dog walking is relaxing
• Poop Scoop Bags – you don’t want to get caught out when your dog decides it’s time to go! • Water – you need to ensure both you and your pet are well hydrated. • Doggy Treats– to help retrieve your dog when he wanders off into the woods seeking out exciting new smells. • A ball/frisbee – you can have hours of fun with this on your walk. It is NOT advisable to throw sticks for dogs due to the incidence of serious and occasionally fatal stick injuries - a ball or frisbee is much better! • Towel/Rub Downs – for a post walk clean up • Lead – to keep your dog under control if you come across unexpected wildlife
• Poop Scoop Bags – you don’t want to get caught out when your dog decides it’s time to go!
• Water – you need to ensure both you and your pet are well hydrated.
• Doggy Treats– to help retrieve your dog when he wanders off into the woods seeking out exciting new smells.
• A ball/frisbee – you can have hours of fun with this on your walk. It is NOT advisable to throw sticks for dogs due to the incidence of serious and occasionally fatal stick injuries - a ball or frisbee is much better!
• Towel/Rub Downs – for a post walk clean up
• Lead – to keep your dog under control if you come across unexpected wildlife
You can find these items and other treats for your dog on the Bob Martin website
Although exercise is one of the key elements to keeping your pet in tip top shape, it is your responsibility to keep your dog as healthy as possible, both inside and out. The following simple steps can help with this:
1. Feed your dog a good balanced diet 2. Plenty of regularly, daily exercise3. Flea and worm periodically4. Groom and wash regularly5. Practice good dental hygiene6. When out and about, don’t forget to scoop the poop! 7. Arrange veterinary check-ups and vaccinations as appropriate8. Always wash your hands after handling your dog.
Too keep up to date with the latest news, views and competitions follow Bob Martin on Twitter @bmpetcare or become a fan on Facebook.
Clean up after your dog
Keep your dog under reasonable control
Put your dog on a lead in areas with livestock
For more information on responsible dog walking in the countryside, visit Natual England's website
The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 294344) and in Scotland (No. SC038885).A non-profit making company limited by guarantee. Registered in England No. 1982873.Registered office: Kempton Way, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 6LL.The Woodland Trust logo is a registered trademark.Contact us | FAQs | E-newsletter | How we use cookies | Accessibility | DDA | Images © protected Woodland Trust