{"id":113,"date":"2015-12-05T14:10:16","date_gmt":"2015-12-05T19:10:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.volvethosp.com\/blog\/?p=113"},"modified":"2022-12-12T16:34:15","modified_gmt":"2022-12-12T21:34:15","slug":"keeping-your-pet-active-throughout-the-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.volvethosp.com\/blog\/keeping-your-pet-active-throughout-the-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"Pet Wellness: Keeping Your Pet Active Throughout the Winter"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u00a0\"pet<\/span>As the days grow colder, it\u2019s sometimes hard to motivate ourselves to get out of bed, much less grab the leash for a quick walk. Many times, our dogs are also more than happy to sleep in, but coming up with ways to keep your pet active is essential to good health and wellness.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Urge to Overfeed<\/b><\/h3>\n

While a lack of exercise isn\u2019t good for anyone (pets included), when paired with a tendency to overeat, our waistlines better watch out! From savory dishes to sweet treats, the holidays keep us stuffed from all the office parties and family gatherings. And as we tend to eat more, so do our pets.<\/span><\/p>\n

The problem is that a few extra pounds on a 10-30 pound animal is a significant percentage increase in weight. As we all know, losing weight is hard and while a plump pet can be cute, being overweight brings serious health issues. From diabetes to high blood pressure, obese pets have an increased risk for many diseases and often lead shorter lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

To keep your pet at a healthy weight, we recommend making a <\/span>wellness appointment<\/span><\/a> during the winter. If your pet struggles with obesity, <\/span>our team<\/span><\/a> can also help formulate the correct diet and exercise plan to lose those dangerous extra pounds.<\/span><\/p>\n

Games to Keep Your Pet Active<\/b><\/h3>\n

One of the best ways to keep your pet healthy this winter is through exercise and challenging activities. <\/span><\/p>\n

Yes, we get it \u2013 being outside can be both miserable and potentially hazardous when snow or sleet arrives. However, the good news is that there are many energy and calorie burning games you can play indoors.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here are a few of our favorite winter activities to keep boredom and weight gain at bay:<\/span><\/p>\n