Don’t Stay Inside, Get Up & Get Out

I’m sure like us, our pets are delighted to be coming into a new year. Brighter evenings and longer days mean more time outside exploring, meeting other dog pals, and getting some well-deserved fresh air. So with that being said, don’t stay inside, get up and get out. 

Exercise is essential for all dogs and should play a key part in their day. We can get a little slower during the winter months but this should not impact our poor little pooches. They need stimulation and when out for walks this keeps their brains active as well as reduces their stress levels. 

Get Up & Get Outside

January is a great time to get back into fitness. With many of us doing this it can be quite inspiring and if you have a furry friend. Well then it should become a lot easier to pull on those walking boots or running shoes.  Apparently having a workout buddy makes it easier to accomplish your goals… That’s me borrowing all the dogs in the neighborhood for the next year. 

During the darker months, some of us have a habit of not moving too far from the door. If you have a young dog who hasn’t seen as much of the outdoors as you would have hoped for. Then preparing it for adventures to come is really important. 

Don’t let the cold weather prevent you from being active, there are a few things you can do before you and your dog head outside. There is such a wide selection of dog coats to protect them from the rain, wind, and cold. These are especially great for dogs with short hair, young or old that might be a little more sensitive than others. 

January has a habit of bringing low temperatures which can result in icy surfaces. If you think your dog will be comfortable wearing boots. They are a great protector from the elements as well as chemicals that may be used such as antifreeze. 

Explore North Wales

North Wales opens the door to some spectacular places for both you and your dog. There are places of wondrous beauty with little gems tucked away waiting to be discovered. 

Walking is a great way to ease both yourself and your pet back into fitness. If your muscles are taking a little longer at working than your dogs, don’t let that convince you to hang up your coat. There are so many easy ways you can make sure your dog is getting the exercise it needs. Extendable leads are an excellent tool that will give your pet the space it needs to run and jump without putting any pressure on you. 

Like us humans, dogs enjoy seeing new and exciting things. If you take them on the same walk every night they will become bored. Try mixing up their route a little, explore a new trail a couple of times a week. Encourage them to sniff as this is like their social networking. 

Other ways to change up your walk might include bringing a friend. If they have a dog then that is even better as this will encourage socialising with both dogs and it’s more company for you. 

Get fit together

As your fitness levels increase, both you and your dog might find you have more energy and confidence. Changing the pace of your walk could be another way to switch up your daily walk. 

Taking their age into consideration is important, taking a young dog out too soon can have an impact on growing joints. Equally, this can be just as bad for an older dog whose joints may be vulnerable.

If you are unsure of your dog’s fitness levels then a check-up at your local vet is a great way to find out. To confirm your four-legged friend has no underlying conditions or is at any potential risk when doing physical activities. 

If you have a young or older dog that is perhaps a little anxious about going out and needs to build on its confidence and/or stamina. Then hide and seek or a scavenger hunt is a fun and effective way to get your dog moving. You can start off playing in the home, gradually moving to the garden and then further afield. Again this will be easy on their limbs and also work their brains which is fantastic for older dogs.

Remember the UK weather – outdoors is not always an option

Living in the UK, we all know the weather can be awful, and yet we struggle to get used to it. If heading out in torrential rain or icy streets is not your thing. Why not head down to our Dog Park in Abergele? This is an indoor soft play for dogs, a growing community of dogs and dog lovers. It is a great way to burn off some energy and get those little legs moving when the weather outside isn’t so great. If you just fancy a day out with your pooch, the park also has tea and treats for both pets and pet parents. 

Join our Facebook Group

We have a Facebook page dedicated to our Dog Park community, where the members often organise meet-ups in and out of the park. 

The Dog park itself is a great place to take your dog for exercise and socialising. If the weather is bad your dog can still get out of the house and have its daily dose of exercise. 

Remember to be prepared

For any form of exercise with your dog, being prepared is extremely important. As previously mentioned dog coats and shoes will protect them from the weather. However, there are a few more things to consider in preparation for a walk. 

Anyone leaving their house with a dog should know to bring waste bags. Whether you are going on your daily walk, a countryside walk, or a stroll along the beach. If not cleaned up in the appropriate way it can be damaging to wildlife, livestock and can cause illness. Having a dog means being responsible for its activities and cleaning up after it. 

Don’t forget to pack dog treats, your dog will need its energy. Plus they are great for rewarding great behaviour which will encourage your dog to perform in the same way on your next outing. 

As well as bringing treats, do not forget water. Your dog’s hydration is as important as your own. There are water bottles with built-in bowls to make it easier. If you can’t get your hands on one of these in time then a bottle of water and a bowl should easily fit into your bag.

Remember to be safe and be seen

If you are a late nightwalker or an early riser, reflective outerwear is a brilliant way to protect your dog, creating awareness to road users, runners or fellow walkers. These are becoming increasingly popular, especially over the winter months. These are great for people who might be working late and feel uncomfortable walking their dog in low light or foggy conditions. 

With so many options to choose from your pet will not only be safe but super stylish as well. 

After a walk outside your dog might be muddy and wet, it’s always a good idea to clean and dry off your little pooch making sure it has a nice cosy area to relax, avoiding any draughts. 

When the roads are icy, more than likely there will be grit and salt on the paths which can irritate your dog’s paws, wiping them down and cleaning between the toes will avoid any irritations. 

If you are driving somewhere to go on an adventure, never leave your dog unattended in a car. The same rules that apply in the summer also apply during the colder months. There are dangers with low low temperatures just as there are with high, again, this shouldn’t prevent you from getting out and exploring new territories. 

Below are some great examples of dog-friendly places to visit 

Bodnant Gardens is a wonderful spot with eighty acres of beauty, it feels like stepping into an oil painting filled with delicious smells that both you and your dog will enjoy. Explore the gardens, woods, and meadows with your best friend.  In order to maintain its beauty and to protect the flower beds, local wildlife, and livestock, you will be expected to keep your dog on a short, non-extendable lead. 

The Great Orme, also referred to as the mini-mountain of Llandudno is a limestone headland on the North Coast of Wales. It has been designated a special area of conservation. There are many different areas you can walk your dog on the Orme which include a nice relaxing walk around Haulfre gardens leading on to some outstanding views of the town, sea, and if you get a nice clear sky, Mount Snowdon.  If you want to be a little more adventurous, why not make your way to the summit where again there are some fantastic walks filled with natural beauty. There are also two little coffee shops dotted on and around the Orme that are dog friendly. 

If you want to get a glimpse of Mount Snowdon but perhaps not jump headfirst into a steep climb up the rocky mountain then a visit to Betws-y-Coed is your next best thing. This stunning area is the gateway to Snowdonia with some lovely walks that are dog-friendly. Depending on how adventurous you feel, there are walks for both the relaxed walker and those who like to go at a faster speed and perhaps introduce some hiking.  

Don’t let the cold winter weather stop you and your dog from getting fit, if you are prepared you can take on the outdoors, whilst having fun and being healthy.