Maximizing Your Dog's Health with Professional Walkers

Your Dog Deserves the Healthiest Life

The very first thing any pet owner must understand is that regular exercise is non-negotiable for dogs. That's just how they are made. But you know what's also true?

The vast majority of dog owners simply can't walk their dog every single day. Things happen, schedules get tight, and suddenly those walks you've been making time for just aren't happening.

Not to worry though. As it turns out, there is a solution for that. A solution that's working great for thousands of dogs, helping them live happier, healthier lives.

In this post we are going to cover…

• The importance of daily walks for your dogs health

• The hidden epidemic of dog obesity in America

• The impact professional dog walkers can have on your dog's life

• The hallmarks of quality dog walking services

Daily Walks Are Essential For Your Dogs Health

Let's start with the basics: your dog was not designed to sit on the couch all day. They were not designed to be a couch potato. Dogs require regular exercise in order to remain healthy. Physically. Mentally.

If they don't get that exercise, your dog is in danger of a whole host of preventable health conditions. The stats bear this out. 56% of US dogs are overweight or obese. I repeat: 56% of dogs in the US are overweight or obese.

More dogs in the US are obese than not.

Do the math on what that means for your dog. Obesity in a dog leads to joint issues, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, shorter lifespan and reduced quality of life. Dogs that don't get enough exercise also have a whole host of behavioral problems including excessive barking, destructive chewing and anxiety.

The solution to this epidemic of preventable disease is the exact same solution it's always been: regular daily walks.

Professional Dog Walking Services Can Change Your Dog's Life

This is where dog walking services come in.

If you can't take your dog for a walk every single day and you are a normal human (hint: you are) then you need a professional to fill that gap. Companies like BravoWalk provide trained professional walkers to make sure your dog is getting the exercise they need even when your schedule is otherwise packed.

Professional dog walking services are not a luxury. They are an investment in your dog's long-term health. Not only do they provide daily exercise, but walking services offer mental stimulation (new routes/experiences), socialization with other dogs and people, and expert care from walkers trained to handle all breeds.

Oh, and here's a little fact most people don't realize…

Studies have shown that 82% of people who went on social dog walks found that it improved their mental well-being. If it does that much for humans… Imagine what it does for your dog!

What Happens When Dogs Don't Get Enough Exercise?

Imagine what happens to your dog when they don't get enough exercise.

First the pounds start creeping on. A pound here. Two pounds there. Before you know it your dog is 10-15 pounds overweight. And while this might not be a big deal on a human…

On a dog, it is an issue.

A 15 pound weight gain on a 50 pound dog is the equivalent of a 150 pound human gaining 45 pounds. It absolutely wrecks their body mechanics and puts severe pressure on their joints.

The end result? Your active dog starts to slow down. Their joints hurt. They sleep more because they are not getting energy from exercise. They don't want to play because moving hurts. It's a vicious downward spiral that could have been completely avoided.

Regular Walking Has Hidden Benefits

Walking is more than just an exercise to burn calories.

Walking provides a mental stimulation that indoor games simply can't replace. Every walk is a mental adventure for your dog. New smells, new sights, new sounds. This mental exercise is just as important as physical activity.

Dogs who get regular walks are less likely to develop anxiety, have better behavior at home, are more relaxed and content, are less prone to destructive behaviors and are easier to train.

Professional walkers know this. They don't just take your dog around the block and call it a day. Quality dog walking services vary routes, allow time for sniffing/exploring and provide the enrichment your dog needs.

How to Choose The Right Walking Service

There is a BIG difference in quality among dog walking services.

When you are evaluating dog walking services here are some of the things you want to look for:

Training and Experience – The walker should know how to handle various breeds and be trained in canine behavior. The ability to read your dog and know how to react is huge.

Insurance and Bonding – Professional dog walkers carry liability insurance to protect you, your dog and themselves. Non-negotiable.

Communication – Good walkers provide updates after each walk. Pictures and notes about behavior and any issues/concerns should be the standard.

Reviews and References – Check out what other dog owners have to say. Honest reviews from real clients will tell you everything you need to know about the service quality.

The Cost vs. Value of Professional Dog Walking

Let's talk about what nobody wants to discuss…

Dog walking services are not free. It's an ongoing cost and adds up over time. But think about what you will pay if your dog develops obesity related illness.

Diabetes in dogs is thousands of dollars per year to treat. Joint surgery for arthritis is $3000 – $5000 per knee. Heart disease treatment? Not cheap either. Avoiding these conditions through proper exercise? A steal.

Oh, and one more thing. One most people don't think about. Studies have shown that dog owners made 15% fewer annual doctor visits than non-owners, but only if the dog was healthy and active.

An unhealthy dog does not make a happy owner.

The best is that results are typically very fast. Just a few walks per week will show huge changes in most dogs. Within weeks you should notice an improvement in energy at home, appetite control, behavior, sleep patterns, and visible weight loss if your dog is overweight.

Consistency is the key. Dogs are creatures of habit and they thrive on a regular, scheduled routine much more than random exercise.

It's a decision you have to make.

Your Dog Depends on You

Your dog relies on you 100% for everything in their life.

They can't drive themselves to the park. They can't make their own play dates. They are 100% dependent on you to meet all of their needs. One of those needs is exercise.

Dog walking services bridge the gap between the exercise your dog needs and the reality of what you can give. It's not a reflection on you as an owner. It's just a reality of how life is today. Modern life often leaves less time for exercise than our dogs need.

And when you see your dog, excited, healthy and full of energy, because they are getting the exercise they need… There is no greater reward.

Dog Walking Services = Healthy Dogs

Dog walking services are not a luxury. They are a necessity for dogs whose owners are unable to provide them daily exercise.

With over half of dogs in the US overweight and the trend of dog obesity only getting worse every year, the time to take action is now. Your dog's health is completely dependent on getting that daily exercise and professional dog walkers are there to help even the busiest pet owner.

Don't wait for health problems to develop. Start taking your dog's exercise needs seriously today. Whether that means making the time yourself for daily walks, or enlisting the help of professional dog walkers so you can be sure your dog is getting what they need.

Your dog is worth it.

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