PetHealth

Know howmuch is too much

Cool down when you’re done

Fuelling fitness

After a workout, your pet needs rest, water and, if they have been extra good, a small and healthy snack (but save larger meals for later). Make time to cool down before leaving the dog park or when you get home from a run. The goal is to rehydrate your pet with controlled water intake over a period of time – drinking too fast can cause vomiting. On a hot day, you can also toss a cool, wet towel over your dog’s back and wrap it under their stomach, allowing the water to make contact with their skin (the stomach has less hair). This is also a good time to check your pet for bugs, thistles and scratches.

Food is fuel, and exercise must be supported by a nutritious diet. Pets require protein, fats and carbohydrates in their daily intake, with the inclusion of vitamins and minerals to aid in body health and wellbeing. The quantity of food your pet needs comes down to their weight and activity levels. Animals that are more active need more fuel, but overfeeding must be avoided. Treats should also be kept to a minimum, and should only make up 10% of your pet’s daily food intake. To determine the ideal portion plan for your pet, it is best to consult a vet.

Excessive panting, slowing down or stopping on the footpath are telltale signs of fatigue in dogs, so stop and rest. If panting is paired with agitation, confusion or vomiting, your pet has overheated and needs shade, water and vet treatment stat. Remember: it is important to stop for regular water breaks on long walks or runs. Other signs that reveal it is time to scale back your workouts are pad injuries on paws, muscle pain and stiffness, joint injuries, and behaviour changes like a loss of interest and energy. If your dog is showing signs of injury or pain, like uneven weight distribution on their legs, it is time for a trip to the vet. While cats are less likely to succumb to exhaustion, they do get agitated from too much play. Monitor your cat’s reactions and back off if they become annoyed or simply get over the game.

PET HEALTH 19