Monday, 22 June 2009

Studies across the globe have confirmed that walking your dog not only helps to lower stress levels, blood pressure and relieve depression, but can actually increase your life expectancy.

With that in mind, an outstanding 1300 dogs have been enrolled in this year’s Discovery 702 Walk the Talk on Sunday, 26 July, to not only get out in the fresh air but improve their health and that of their owners while having some fun.

According to Dr Marianne de Vries, veterinary behaviour specialist, walking your dog not only improves your own health, but also keeps your dog physically fit and substantially improved their quality of life throughout the ageing process. When old age does come knocking, your dog will be much better equipped to continue to be mobile, alert and energetic throughout the day.

"Exercising with your puppy from the age of eight weeks is so important in the development of social interaction, muscle development and brain stimulation, however care should be taken not to over exercise young dogs as their bone structure is still very soft and fragile and permanent damage may be done to joints if they are injured at this age,” said Marianne. “Only once your dog reaches the age of one year, should you be having fun at events such as Walk the Talk."

Both you and your dog should prepare for the Walk ahead of time. Make sure you’ve taken your dog on regular walks before the big day and that your equipment, such as your dog’s leash and your own walking shoes, is suitable.

Both you and your dog should be in good health and protected from excessive heat and sunburn, and have plenty of water for hydration. This is where this year’s doggie sponsors Royal Canin will be stepping in to help.

As always, Royal Canin will be providing all the support for the dogs, from veterinary care to water points especially for dogs, along the route as well as many great give-aways and prizes. Each dog will also receive a doggy registration bag filled with exciting goodies!

“Every year we are amazed at the amount of dogs we see enrolled in this event,” said Dr Craig Nossel, Head of Vitality Wellness at Discovery. “This year, with more than 1000 dogs entered, it is clear that pet owners understand the need to keep their pets healthy with regular exercise. It is also a great motivator for all the pet lovers to participate in the walk and also to be active throughout the year. We look forward to welcoming all types of dogs at this year event.”

Pheladi Gwangwa, Talk Radio 702 station manager and ‘mom’ to Boxer, Smallie-small, added that the event promises to be fun for all. “As a dog owner myself, I think taking part in the Discovery Walk the Talk is such a great way to bond with your pet in a safe environment. It’s really going to be a great day out for all.”

Picture: Talk Radio 702 station manager Pheladi Gwangwa and daughter Ntsimedi with Boxer, Smallie-small while daughter Ntsimedi looks on.

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