Canine Fitness Therapy & Nutrition

 
 

FITNESS

Just like people, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy and keeping them active is important for both their physical and mental health.

From preventing diabetes and weight-related stress on joints to meeting their mental needs, the impact of canine fitness is vital no matter the age, breed or size. Every dog needs regular exercise.

Some other benefits of keeping your canine fit include:

  • Healthy weight and body condition can lead to a longer and happier life.

  • Regular exercise helps older dogs move their joints and maintain muscle.

  • Exercise and interactive play can reduce stress, anxiety, and boredom.

***We can offer fitness as part of lodging stay or talk with one of our professionals on a developing a program best suited for you and your furry pal!***

Email Tracie@islanddoglodge.com for more information.

As a trainer who is active in competitive dog sports, it is easy for me to say that canine fitness is an important aspect of my dogs’ career. Conditioning dogs is a part of my life more than it is for most, even those who are actively competing in various dog sports with their own dogs.

Here are a few benefits to fitness for our dogs:

  • Improved quality of life.

  • Dogs that are overweight can expect to shave off as many as seven years off of their life expectancy.

  • Dogs that are fit have enhanced lifespans.

  • Prevention of injuries.

  • Fit dogs have less pain in their joints.

  • They move more fluidly and have less of a chance of soft tissue injuries, torn ligaments, and ruptured discs.

  • Lowers the risk of cancer and diabetes.

NUTRITION

The proper balance of nutrients is essential when feeding your dog. Animals (and humans) need a certain combination of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and water every day in order to function normally. Balanced nutrition is no accident – pet food manufacturers work hard to determine the exact formula that goes into their products so that they provide everything your dog needs on a daily basis.

There are foods designed for specific stages of life (such as for puppies or geriatric dogs), while some provide hypoallergenic nutrition and other formulations are developed to control specific health conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, etc.

Each and every nutrient in your dog’s food has a purpose. Without adequate nutrition, your dog would not be able to maintain muscle tone, build and repair muscles, teeth, and bone, perform normal daily activities with ease or fight-off infection. Proteins provide a source of energy and help with muscle function and growth. Fats provide energy, help the brain function, and keep the skin and hair coat shiny and healthy. Carbohydrates supply a source of quick energy that allow your dog to be active and energetic. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for muscle contraction and nerve conduction, and they work to prevent disease.

Proper nutrition will help and guide all stages of your dogs age, breed and health. Most importantly it will aid in muscle tone and conditioning, skin and hair coat, digestion & elimination, immunity, and prevention of diseases.

We can help customize and provide consultation on the best nutrition for your canine.