January is celebrated as Walk Your Dog Month, a time dedicated to promoting the physical and mental well-being of our canine companions through regular exercise.  Dog walking during colder months offers unique benefits for both dogs and their owners, particularly in regions like British Columbia and across Canada.

As part of encouraging pet owners to get out and walk, we also wanted to recognize the role of dog physiotherapy in maintaining and enhancing your dog’s health, especially during increased physical activity. Animal rehabilitation services like those offered by Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital (BBVSH) provide tailored physiotherapy programs to ensure your dog stays active and healthy throughout the year. (And we provide services to cats, too!)

So bundle up, leash up, and step out to make this Walk Your Dog Month a meaningful and healthy experience for you and your furry friend!

Benefits of dog walking, even in cold weather

There are benefits to both pet owners AND dogs to maintaining a regular walking routine.

For dogs:

1. 1. Physical health: Regular walks during colder months keep your dog active, preventing weight gain and maintaining joint health. Walking helps to burn calories and manage weight, strengthen muscles, improving mobility and endurance, and stimulate digestion and improve overall metabolic function.
   2. Mental stimulation: Winter landscapes provide new sights, smells, and textures, offering sensory enrichment for your dog. Snow-covered trails, crisp air, and different scents keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom.
   3. Bonding time: Walks are an excellent way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. In cold months, the shared activity fosters trust and companionship, creating lasting memories.
   4. Boosting immune health: Regular activity, even in the cold, helps maintain your dog’s immune system, reducing susceptibility to illnesses often associated with a sedentary lifestyle during winter.
   5. Beating the winter blues: Much like humans, dogs can experience the winter blues. Fresh air, daylight exposure, and physical activity can improve your dog’s mood while benefiting your mental health as well.

For pet owners:

1. 1. Bonding experience: The human-pet bond is such a unique relationship. When you take the time to get out and walk your best mate, it’s a time to bond and experience a new environment. Naturally, this may be a chance to explore, adventure, and see something new, which is fun for you and your furry friend.

1. 2. No screen time: With so much day-to-day activity in front of a screen, a mental break is needed and gives your pup a chance to stretch its legs. The lack of screens also gives you the chance to focus on what is important during the walk. Keep your phone on you for safety reasons and to call someone only if necessary.

1. 5. Training opportunity: Your dog walk could be used as a training opportunity. If you have a new puppy, one of the main health benefits of walking dogs for you might be the opportunity to work on basic leash and behavioral skills. If you find your dog is being particularly leash-reactive, this extra time may give you the opportunity to retrain. Walks can also give you an opportunity to focus on hand signals and commands with lights.

1. 6. Keep tabs on pup’s health: One of the most important health benefits of walking dogs is the opportunity to help keep tabs on your pup’s health. By walking your furry friends each day, you may spot a new behavior or something abnormal. Consider keeping a journal to track any unusual findings so you can follow up with your veterinarian with any concerns.

1. 7. Bring the entire family on dog walks! From a hiking adventure to an afternoon family stroll, the health benefits of walking dogs can help provide emotional, physical, and mental stimulation for the entire family. It can help provide connection, bonding, and versatile training environments that may provide rich fulfillment for your furry friends.

Cold Weather Tips for Safe Winter Walks in BC and Canada

1. Protect paws: Winter sidewalks can be harsh on your dog’s paws due to ice, snow, and salt. Use pet-safe balms or booties to prevent cracks or irritation.
2. Dress for the weather: Small breeds, senior dogs, or those with thin coats may need a winter jacket or sweater to stay warm.
3. Monitor temperature tolerance: Some dogs thrive in the cold, but others may need shorter walks. All dogs can be susceptible to frost bite especially on paws, ears and tail in extreme temperatures. Watch for signs of discomfort like shivering, whining, or reluctance to continue.
4. Stay visible: In BC’s often rainy or snowy conditions, daylight hours are limited. Use reflective gear for both you and your dog to stay safe during early morning or evening walks.
5. Hydration matters: Even in the cold, ensure your dog has access to fresh water to stay hydrated before and after walks.

What is dog physiotherapy?

Dog physiotherapy, akin to physical therapy in humans, involves structured exercises and therapeutic techniques aimed at improving mobility, alleviating pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life for dogs. This specialized field addresses various conditions, including post-surgical recovery, chronic pain management, and rehabilitation from injuries.

Benefits of dog physiotherapy

Integrating dog physiotherapy with regular walks can maximize your dog’s physical and emotional well-being:

• • Improved mobility: Therapeutic exercises restore and maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength, facilitating smoother movement.
  • Pain management: Techniques like massage and hydrotherapy alleviate discomfort from arthritis or injuries.
  • Enhanced recovery: Post-operative physiotherapy accelerates healing and reduces the risk of complications.
  • Weight management: Regular, supervised exercise aids in maintaining a healthy weight, reducing strain on joints.

How do I integrate physiotherapy into my dog’s exercise routine?

As you increase your dog’s activity levels during Walk Your Dog Month, consider the following to ensure their safety and well-being:

• • Consult a professional: Before initiating a new exercise regimen, especially for dogs with existing health conditions, consult a veterinarian or a certified canine physiotherapist.
  • Start gradually: Begin with short walks, gradually increasing duration and intensity to build endurance without causing strain.
  • Monitor for signs of discomfort: Watch for limping, reluctance to move, or signs of pain, and seek professional advice if these occur.
  • Incorporate therapeutic exercises: Engage in activities recommended by a physiotherapist to strengthen specific muscle groups and improve flexibility.

Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital offers comprehensive animal rehabilitation services led by professionals with specialized training in dog (and cat!) physiotherapy. Our goal is to provide individualized care that addresses each pet’s unique needs, ensuring a safe and effective rehabilitation process.

For more information on our rehabilitation services, visit BBVSH’s Animal Rehabilitation page.

Some final thoughts on Walk Your Dog month

Walk Your Dog Month is an excellent opportunity to enhance your dog’s physical health through regular exercise, even during colder months. Integrating dog physiotherapy into your routine can further support their well-being, particularly for dogs recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions.

By combining daily walks with professional rehabilitation services, you can help your dog lead a healthier, more active life while strengthening your bond.