Fun for the every day dog – Keep your pets active, happy & healthy.

Every kid who has experienced the run-up to Christmas knows what “reindeer games” are, but those who don’t mind placing a little bit of money on the line (or online at sports betting sites) know about another kind of contest altogether, that being “canine games”. Before the PETA types get to painting their signs, “canine games” does not refer to Michael Vick’s dogfighting ring, nor even to Greyhound racing – it’s not about the Puppy Bowl, either – but rather to dog shows and competitions.

“Gimme 20 Biscuits on the Rhodesian Ridgeback”

As hilariously depicted in the movie, Best in Show, canine competition is fierce, frought with worry and flush with cash. Not only is there a lot at stake for the dogs, owners, trainers and handlers, there’s also quite a bit of Vegas-style action going on behind the scenes. Handicappers like those reviews at 5dimes.com actually have a treasure trove of data and information upon which to base their odds-making tendencies, as much or more than that involved in horse racing or billiards.

But That’s Subjective…

By now it is obvious that human nature is behind our desire to put a wager on just about any two things moving in a straight line. Since canine games are decided by judges and not by touchdowns, home runs, free throws or slap shots, the betting public gets an extra shot of adrenaline – nobody really knows until the ribbons are handed out, especially since so much of judging canine games is based on subjective opinion.

As one develops the keen sense of an aficionado, one will stand a better chance of winning their bets at the canine games bmaker. However the dogs (and their people) might feel about that, it cannot be understated how many people have taken an interest in the world of canine competition, whether they stand to make a few bucks on what happens in the arena or otherwise. It’s a dog’s world – and there’s nothing wrong with that!

When pet owners travel, it is natural for them to want their pets to come along. When driving, this is as simple as packing the pet in the car, feeding it and letting it use the bathroom during the trip. When it comes to flying, the risks and preparation are much different.

1. Whether your pet is flying in the cargo hold or in the cabin, which airline you choose is very important. Some airlines are pet friendly, while others treat your pets as little more than luggage. Do your research. Seek out animal travel reviews regarding your airlines. Your pet will need to be up to date on its vaccines no matter which airline you take.

2. Packing your pet is the next step to safe and comfortable travel for your pet. Consider the following when arranging your pet’s accommodations — temperature, length of flight, layovers and whether the pet will be on the tarmac for an extended period.

3. Choose a carrier that gives your animal plenty of room. Your veterinarian can suggest a carrier size for your pet. For your pet’s comfort, make sure the carrier contains a toy from home. The object and its smell may help alleviate stress.

4. Food and water are not allowed on most airlines, so feed the animal a few hours before the flight and let it have time to use the bathroom. Do give it water as much as it wants, right up until boarding. Leave a dish inside the carrier in case there is an unexpected delay. The airline should feed your pet. Be sure to ask about this before booking.

5. If it is going to be cold, put materials in the carrier that the animal can burrow into, such as blankets. If it is cold at the layover and hot at the destination, that is okay. They can always come out of the blanket. Just be sure that your pet is the first thing you get upon arrival.

6. Be sure to put your pet’s name on the carrier, as well as your own, even if it is flying in cabin. Do not check the carrier more than two hours before your flight.

Once you know all of the regulations regarding your pet’s travel, everything from there is arranging for its comfort. After the flight, spend a lot of time with your pet, comforting it and exercising it. Air travel is very stressful for animals.

Emily is a proud “mother” of two dogs who love to travel everywhere with her. She is also a contributing writer for policy expert home insurance.

Sometimes exercising can be a drag; many times, it is hard to get a consistent routine when first starting. Many people use their pets to increase the fun and activity in their workouts. Simply playing with your pet more often can lead to becoming more active outside the house as well as inside the house.

Outside Activities with Pets

Pets can make even the most mundane excercies seem like a lot more fun. Many people increase their outside activities by spending more time with pets outside, instead of simply letting them out on their own in the yard. Dogs are great pets to help you stay active. Many people run their morning or evening jog with their favorite dog. Dogs can run much longer and faster than the average person can. Dogs can also help runners establish a steady pace they can manage instead of feeling winded.

Inside Activities with Pets

Being active with your favorite pets is another great way to stay active when you are in the house. Pets will always want to play, unless they’re very old. The best way to keep yourself and your pet from being too lazy is to have a period of playtime with your pet everyday. Pets can go nonstop once they get riled-up, even the most simple game or play with your pet is better than being a couch potato.

Most of the time, it is not about what you are doing, rather is it about how often you are doing it. Make playing the pets a more consistent effort and this fun habit will form and have you living a more active life everyday. It does not take much to be active with pets inside, but doing so consistently can do wonders to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.