Let's Go!

by Tanner

© Carrie Boyko
Concentrate.
I Have a Big Job Today

There's nothing like it. When I get outside I'm a new dog. I love the smells, sounds, sights and people I meet no matter where we go. Heading for Starbucks? No problem! Want to hike to Grandma's house; I'm in. Just don't leave me home to be bored and lonely. I need excitement too.

Even the stimulation of having to concentrate more when I carry the backpack is big fun for me. Ever heard of the concept called FLOW? I'm in the FLOW when I carry the backpack. I have to focus on walking smoothly, so the backpack doesn't sway. I like it to stay still and snug against my body. And when we arrive, I love the feeling of knowing I contributed. Mom always makes sure to thank me for helping. I love my walks!

Mom wrote an article on her blog today about different ways to give us dogs a new experience when we go out for a walk. We enjoy trying out new things, new places, new sights and smells. Hope you read it and try some with your pup. Enjoy!

Exercising Us Dogs Appropriately for Our Age and Health

by Xena

It didn't get past me that today's post at All Things Dog Blog was all about exercising the younger crowd. That's right, Mom. I noticed. More Exercise Options for Your Dog was geared to the young and the energetic--sounds like a soap opera, huh?

Well, I need to get my two cents in. I may be a senior citizen but I need my exercise too. And lucky for me, you walk me regularly--always have. Thanks for doing that Mom. Thank the rest of the family too. They helped a lot.

I'm in my golden years now and taking a long walk with Tanner and Oliver is sometimes a bit more than I can handle. I'm glad Mom has realized that she can swing by the house and drop me off halfway through the walk. That works for me.

If you have a a senior dog, or one with health issues that interfere with exercise, you might want to read a couple of helpful posts:

Too Much Exercise?
ASK THE DOG TRAINER: Managing the Exercise Needs of Your Older and Younger Dogs, by Judith Joseph