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Working out is more fun with a partner, and what better get-fi t companion than your four-legged, furry friend? An Exerciser's Staying active benefi ts nearly every aspect of your health — from your weight and mood to your heart, lungs and bones. Just like physical activity is vital to your health, exercise also improves the health of your pets. WHICH EXERCISES ARE BEST? The type of pet you have typically dictates the types of activities you can enjoy together. In most cases, dogs make the best exercise companions if you're looking to improve your fi tness and get at least 30£minutes of exercise most days of the week. Hiking, running and walking are among the ways many people choose to exercise with their dogs. Dogs that like water may also make good swimming, paddleboarding or kayaking buddies, as long as they are outfi tted with the appropriate safety gear, including a life jacket. Keep in mind that even if dogs get ample playtime in a fenced backyard, experts still recommend a short daily walk or jog. In this way, owning a dog can hold you accountable — a 2011 study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that dog owners are 34 percent more likely to get the recommended 150 minutes of exercise each week. SAFETY FOR YOU AND YOUR POOCH If you and your pet are new to exercise, it's important to slowly build up your endurance over time. To avoid the summer heat, exercise your pet in the morning or evening. Also, make sure your pet has access to plenty of fresh water during and after activity, and watch for signs that your four-legged pal is getting tired or overheated, which may include excessive panting, stopping during the middle of the activity to stand, lie or sit down, and limping. Some dogs are more suited to certain exercises than others. Small dogs, including many types of terriers, are energetic and well-suited to run or jog short distances, while larger Border Collies, retrievers, Weimaraners and Dalmatians are often good training partners on long runs because they are built to go the distance. ✚ Dalmatian Loves to run long distances Russell Terrier Great for an active, outdoorsy family Labrador Retriever Enjoys swimming Best Friend No Reason for Sneezin' Many people with pets suŒ er from allergies, which can be triggered by pet dander or environmental allergens. Thankfully, you can keep Fido, pollen and mold from making you miserable. Clean up your act. Washing your pet and bedding at least once a week can help, as can changing clothes and wiping down or brushing your dog's fur as soon as you return from an outdoor excursion. No dogs allowed. Even if you're not allergic to your pet, dogs and cats can carry allergens on their fur. For this reason, it's a good idea to declare certain areas of your home, including your bed, a pet-free zone. Stay inside. If pollen counts are high, consider playing an indoor game of fetch. Basset Hound Excellent lounging companion To find a primary care doctor who can help you develop a safe fitness regimen, visit christussetx.org/find-a-doctor or call (866) 683-3627. Summer 2017 | christusset x.org BE WELL 5