For Immediate Release
January 10, 2007
Contact: Karlene Belyea, Executive Director
(517) 347-4710
When making new year’s resolutions to lose a few pounds Americans should also
include their family pet.
Dr. Stephen Steep, president of Michigan Veterinary Medical Association says
both cats and dogs need some physical activity each day.
“Dogs and cats should be exercising approximately 120 minutes per week to
maintain a healthy lifestyle,” says Steep. "Also, keep your pet away from table scraps
and select a pet food that meets all your pet's nutritional needs. Most of the commercial
pet foods are a great option."
Steep suggests a variety of activities to keep your dog fit and active:
 Intense games of fetch can be fun for both pet and owner.
 Long walks and jogs are a simple and easy way to get your pet active.
 Resistance walking, which involves walking your dog on a variety of
surfaces such as sand or shallow water, is good for muscle building.
“Swimming is another excellent workout for dogs, especially those with
arthritis,” says Steep. “Obstacle courses where your dog must jump over, climb, and
crawl under objects can also be an exciting activity for a pet.”
(more)
It can be a bit more challenging for owners to find physical activities for their
cats. Many cats enjoy playing with feather toys, catnip and chasing and fetching games.
“Food can be used to motivate your cat,” says Karlene Belyea, MVMA executive
director. “Changing the location of your cat’s dish can help it climb stairs more often or
move to various places in your home.”
Some cats can be walked but typically such behavior must be learned at an early
age.
The Michigan Veterinary Medical Association is comprised of more than 2,000
Michigan veterinarians and provides continuing education for veterinarians and related
professionals, monitors state legislation and regulations pertaining to veterinary
medicine, and promotes veterinary medicine through a multifaceted public education
program.
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