HOW often do you walk your dog?
New research from Guide Dogs Australia shows 1 in 10 dogs are not being walked at all, while one quarter of Australian dog owners are only going on walkies once a week.
Out of the 1000 dog owners surveyed, 42 per cent said lack of time was the biggest obstacle to walking their dogs, followed by weather conditions at 35 per cent.
To help more paws hit the pavement, Guide Dogs Australia has launched PAWGUST to challenge all dog owners to walk their dog for at least 30 minutes, every day, for 30 days this August.
PAWGUST’s Veterinary Ambassador Paul McGreevy said all healthy dogs – big and small – need regular walks.
“Dogs thrive on daily walks for the opportunities they provide to socialise, indulge in some one-on-one attention from their owner, explore beyond the home and discover new smells. This inspires curiosity and excitement to release endorphins and make them happier dogs,” Professor McGreevy said.
“A dog that isn’t walked regularly can demonstrate frustrated, destructive, anti-social behaviours and is also more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases and soft muscles, as well as gain weight. In fact, Australia is the world leader in dog obesity.”
Dog owners pledging to take part in PAWGUST can help raise money for people living with vision impairment.
Guide Dogs Australia plays a critical role in enabling people with impaired vision to move around their communities safely and independently, by providing orientation and mobility services, including guide dogs.
Details - www.PAWGUST.com.au
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