Gyms for dogs - A new trend

Why do people join gyms? There are a number of reasons, from having built-in motivation or the variety of offerings, to having an alternative to exercise during inclement weather. Whatever the reason, a consistent fitness program offered by a gym is one of the best ways to ensure good health.

What about your dog? Does the idea of your dog belonging to a gym sound far fetched? Not really! Just like human gyms in the ’70s, fitness programs for dogs are popping up in various parts of the country. If you’re the kind of person who recognizes the health benefits of regular structured exercise, you’ll also realize the same is true for your dog. Most dogs, however, don’t get the quality and quantity of exercise they need. In our jam-packed, hectic lives many of our dogs simply get a walk around the block. Others get no exercise at all. In these situations, a gym can definitely be of benefit.

As with humans, dogs who get little to no exercise often wind up overweight, experiencing many of the same diseases and conditions we do. The statistics are alarming – 54 percent of all dogs are overweight. Diabetes in dogs is rising at a faster rate than in humans, up 46 percent since 2005. Overweight dogs may also suffer joint problems, heart disease, increased risk of cancer, and more. But more important is their decreased quality of life, and shortened life span.

How does a gym benefit your dog? Most importantly, they are staffed by canine fitness professionals who know best how to work out each dog. And gyms have all the necessary equipment so you don’t have to buy it and try to figure out how to get your dog to use it! Plus, when your dog regularly goes to the gym, you no longer have to worry about making sure he gets enough exercise after you get home from a long day at work. Instead, you can relax knowing he has been appropriately exercised. So, do yourself and your dog a favor – give the gym a try!

Sherri Cappabianca, an expert in the field of canine health and fitness, is the author of two books on canine health, and is the co-owner of Rocky’s Retreat Canine Health & Fitness Center, and Barking Dog Fitness, a gym for dogs, both located in Orlando. For more information, visit rockysretreat.com or barkingdogfitness.com