Now that the holiday season has passed and all the elaborate meals, holiday treats and extra calories have been consumed, it is time to get out and exercise! When you make plans to achieve your New Year’s resolution to become fit for the 2009 year, don’t forget that your dog has probably been eating a surplus of leftovers and could use the exercise too! In order to maintain accountability in your workout schedule, fitness experts always recommend a workout buddy and who better to assist you in your plan to become fit than that furry pal of yours?

It is well documented that in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle we need to eat right and get the proper amount of exercise. The same is true for our dogs. Consistent running or walking helps prevent heart disease for both you and your pet and will also promote strength in bones and muscles helping to ward off arthritis while at the same time maintain a healthy weight.

Supporting a healthy lifestyle for both our dogs and ourselves also requires natural nutrition, adequate rest, social interaction with other dogs and humans and avoidance of toxins and stressful environments.

While exercising outdoors, it is important to clean up after your pet - not only will you keep your community clean, but you can also prevent or decrease health problems affecting your pets or your family. Bags on Board® dispenser is a great item that makes picking up after your pet simple and convenient. Bags on Board® has a compact, refillable dispenser with a roll of 15 large doggie clean-up bags that conveniently attaches to any kind of leash - standard or retractable allowing you to clean up after your pet wherever you go. 

In addition to making sure your dog is maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is important to remember that providing love and regular attention to your pet is one of the most crucial components to not only his health and happiness, but yours too. Loneliness and aggression are common in dogs that have not received proper care. As you walk your dog, give him a nice affectionate pat on the head or simply curl up together on the couch to make sure he is receiving the necessary treatment that will benefit both your health as well as his.