If you are leaving your hound at home in favour of trotting on the spot at the local gym or choosing EastEnders over walkies – ‘You must be barking mad!’ say UK vets who are noticing anincrease in canine obesity and decrease in mobility for our four-legged friends.
Dogs for the Disabled communications manager, Sarah Watson said: "Dogs give us so much; you only need to look at the benefits our assistance dogs give to their owners to see exactly that. We're supporting the 21 Top Dog Walks campaign as we firmly believe that healthy dogs also helps make healthy people too."
The benefits of a good walk with your canine companion are endless – from warding off depression and managing weight problems to increasing your chances of meeting Mr or Miss Right. And the benefits are just as great for your pooch - twice a day walkies will help reduce canine obesity and related conditions including heart disease, arthritis, breathing difficulties and diabetes.
But for many, the mind is willing; it’s just a case of finding a decent dog walk. In a recent survey, carried out at Crufts, to raise awareness of Hill’s Canine j/d almost one in four dog owners admitted they did not exercise their dog properly as there is no suitable walk nearby.
Tom Wright, chief executive of VisitBritain, says: “Britons take about 3.2 million holidays in England, especially to go walking. With nine national parks, more than 3,000 miles of coastline, stunning landscapes and beaches, as well as parks, rivers and canals in towns and cities the length and breadth of the country, we’re spoilt for choice. So pick up that lead, pack your pooper-scooper, get out and enjoy – and let us know which the best walks in Britain are.”
So whether a trek up your local high street is your thing or skipping through the daisies is more your style we want to know about it.
Visit www.21topdogwalks.co.uk for details and to nominate your favourite dog walk.
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