I’ll be the first to admit that I love a good evening at home on the couch, cuddling with Berlin and Bagheera, who perhaps, if Bagheera is lucky, are also cuddling together (check out the latest in this saga -HERE-). It’s good for our souls..but it doesn’t complete the picture.
Our days also consist of walks, play time, and other day-to-day routines. I consciously think about our purpose everyday and what can help us live this life together as long as possible.
If I’m feeling anxious, it’s amazing what a good walk with Berlin with do for my spirits. If I’m overwhelmed, a good play time with Bagheera is sure to put a smile on my face. And I’m in tune to their needs as well, providing cuddles, activity, or sometimes even space as requested through their body language and behavior changes.
With this in mind, I wanted to share with you an alarming statistic as well as how to determine if your pet is at their ideal weight. But first, a reminder of the benefits of physical activity.
Now, before I share with you how to determine if your pet is at their ideal weight, which can be achieved through a good diet and physical activity, here is that frightening statistic:
Looking down at your dog/cat from directly overhead, their outline should taper between their ribs and hips.
From the side, there should be a tuck-up towards the groin after your dog/cat’s ribs. That said, it’s natural for cats to have a small pooch that helps them maneuver (jumping, etc).
You should be able to easily feel your dog/cat’s ribs, though they might not be visible.
If you aren’t sure if your dog (or cat) is at a healthy weight, please consult with your veterinarian.
Join my fitness classes with your dog on Monday and Wednesday nights in Santa Monica and my monthly pack walks in and around Los Angeles.
Over the next three weeks, you’ll get helpful dog training tips and tutorials, fun canine and human fitness training exercises, and a collection of other healthy living guides right to your inbox 😉.
You’ll also receive additional dog and fitness training pointers, cute and inspirational stories, and my in-person and online class and pack walk schedule through my regular Fun Feet Pawblication©.