Treadmills: Not Just for Humans Anymore

Pet obesity is on the rise and one increasingly popular solution is treadmills for dogs. Not only do these tools assist in helping dogs shed extra pounds, but they can also be helpful with behavioral issues.

Just as exercise helps to relieve stress and raises mood in people, well-exercised animals are more likely to beÂ well-adjusted emotionally when their physical bodies have the opportunity to be active.

Why a treadmill instead of a walk?

When I saw a treadmill being promoted at a pet conference, I have to admit, I thought it was a little crazy. It seemed to me to beÂ an excuse for humans not to bond with their pet and get out of their own exercise regimen. But with the increase in dog treadmill sales, I thought it was worth investigating the trend.

The benefits of a treadmill are to keep consistency, which dogs rely on. Adverse weather can mean skipping exercise time. People who live in very hot climates especially appreciate having an exercise option for largerÂ or snub-nosed breeds who can't tolerate a walk in the heat because of breathing problems. Working out in anÂ air-conditioned environment makes a lot ofÂ sense for these dogs.

Some dog temperaments are very active or highly intelligent, such as working breeds, and an owner may be unable to keep up with physical needs of that dog to keep them content. Apartment dwellers, those with several dogs, or physical limitations are great candidates for dog treadmills.

Just like humans, keeping fit adds years of healthy living to a creature, and this could be a great supplement to an overall healthy lifestyle.

How muchÂ do dog treadmills cost?

The Dog Pacer versionÂ that I saw at BlogPaws starts at around $500. Other companies start at aroundÂ $1,200 and can be up to $40,000 for the water tank versions that are designedÂ for dogs with joint problems (see my previous post about hydrotherapy.) Some would say this investmentÂ has been a must for their active, intelligent dogs. We don't carryÂ any at BaxterBoo.com, but we're all for sharing products to improve the lives of dogs and their humans, no matter where they're found!

For more information, check out these sites:

The DogPacerÂ

Jog A Dog

http://news.yahoo.com/dog-treadmill-sales-brisk-pets-shape-162509901.html

BaxterBoo.com now carries the DogPacer Treadmill! Click here to shop!

Photo courtesy of Roxanne Ready.

Have you had experience with dog treadmills? Would you recommend them?

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