Spring, is that you? After two March nor’easters and average temperatures hovering in the 30’s for the past few weeks, it seems that winter is finally leaving us alone here in the NYC-metro area. With the snow thawing, sun setting later, temperatures rising and flowers blooming, it’s prime walking season!
Why walk your dog?
When our family moved from the city to the ‘burbs in 2012, I was immediately struck by how many of our new neighbors did not walk their dogs, opting instead just to let them into the yard. While yard time can be great for dogs, it’s no substitute for a walk!
There are very few dog behavioral issues that are not reduced (or, in some cases, completely rectified) by walks.
Walking is a huge part of my philosophy when it comes to fostering, and the inspiration behind starting a successful pack walking group. Take these common behavioral challenges, for example….
- A bored dog that becomes destructive, barky, hyper, etc. inside the house when he hasn’t had enough exercise. How about a walk to blow off some steam?
- A leash puller that needs some practice. How about a walk to practice loose leash walking?
- A reactive dog that becomes over-aroused when he sees other dogs. How about a walk to work on reducing the novelty of seeing other dogs?
- A nervous dog. How about a walk to improve your bond and increase his confidence?
- A dog that is going to the bathroom inside the house. How about a walk so he learns appropriate places to potty?
The list goes on and on!
A challenge.
In honor of springtime and the joy of dog walking, we are joining Rescue Run Club’s 3030 challenge this April. It’s a virtual event with a simple premise. You walk (or run, for you overachievers!) 30 miles during the month of April, on your own schedule, with a dog of your choice. It’s $20 to participate, and 100% of the net proceeds go to Its The Pits Dog Rescue (San Diego, CA) or Austin Animal Center (Austin, TX) — you choose which one.
So who is with us?
Let us know in the comments below if you’ll be joining us in this challenge – registration closes April 5th! Also, stay tuned to The Sniff’s Instagram account (@thesniffblog) where I’ll be posting about our progress throughout the month of April!
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