By the Pet Food Institute
Several pet owners believe that it is nearly impossible to give their pets a proper workout during the rainy season. However, owners are reminded that there are several activities that they can do to ensure that their beloved four-legged companions get their daily dose of exercise.
Staying in and teaching their pets new tricks is a great example of a mental workout. Teaching one’s pet new tricks can help improve their behavior, increase bonding with their human, and help the pet be comfortable around people. When training one’s pet, owners are reminded to be patient and to take into consideration factors such as their pet’s abilities and age when they teach them tricks. If their pet is old, owners must not force them to learn strenuous tricks such as standing on their hind legs.
Climbing up and down the stairs is a different form of exercise that owners can enjoy with their dogs and cats. Owners with a staircase at home may use this to strengthen their pet’s strength and stamina. This simple exercise also helps strengthen the bond between owner and pet as synchronicity is required to avoid untoward incidents. If climbing up and down the stairs is not an option, owners may play a game of fetch by sitting on top of the stairs and throwing a toy to their pet. This can also help the owner get exercise, as well, as they bring the ball back up the stairs.
Another game that pet owners might want to explore is the fun nose game. The nose game challenges pets to find treats their owners hid around the house. Playing this simple yet interesting game physically and mentally challenges pets and helps them rely on their instincts and senses, particularly their sense of smell.
For those who are looking for a more active gameplay, setting up an obstacle course for their pets is a great way to beat the boredom during the rainy season. Pet owners may use boxes, towels, cushions, and other household items that may serve as barriers and hurdles their pets can jump over and avoid. This activity is the perfect exercise for pets because it challenges them physically. Moreover, this activity strengthens the bond and trust between owner and their beloved pets.
Pet Food Institute (PFI) is committed in educating pet owners about proper pet nutrition to keep pets healthy and happy. Through its local initiative, Well-Fed, Well-Nurtured campaign in partnership with the Veterinary Practitioners Association of the Philippines (VPAP), PFI seeks to advocate responsible pet ownership to the ever-growing Filipino pet community.
About the Pet Food Institute
Since 1958, the Pet Food Institute has been the voice of the U.S. pet food industry. PFI is the industry's representative before Congress and state legislatures, as well as state and federal agencies; public education and media relations resource; organizer of seminars and educational programs; and liaison with other organizations. PFI represents the companies that make 98 percent of U.S. dog and cat food, an industry with more than $20 billion in U.S. retail sales and $1.3 billion in exports in 2015.
