If it's time for you and your pet to get in shape, check out "Go Fetch Fitness". Dr. Elizabeth Bixby with Taylor Veterinary Hospital in Cedar Falls knows how hard it is to find time to exercise our pets. That's why a book inspired her to start a fitness program for people and pets.
"It's all about bonding with your dog through exercise and the benefits both of you can receive in doing that," said Dr. Elizabeth Bixby.
"Go Fetch Fitness" is a six week program starting April 14. People and their pets will be put in teams of three or four. They'll meet three times a week at Taylor Vet from Noon to 1 p.m. for sessions on health and nutrition, plus a dog walk.
"The walking time will increase by five minutes each week so we'll walk up to 40 minutes for the last two weeks," said Dr. Bixby.
While Dr. Bixby focuses on our pets, Allison Nordgren with the Family YMCA of Black Hawk County will give us humans tips too.
"I think this is a great opportunity for a group of people, dog owners, to get out there and be physically active or just become more physically active," said Nordgren.
It's estimated 40 to 60 percent of pets are overweight or obese. Just like people, they need exercise. It's important to get out and stay healthy with your pet. We all know one of the hardest parts about exercise is sticking with it. Hopefully, including a pet will do the trick.
"Dogs, once you get on a regular exercise program with them, they will come and remind you to come and exercise and if you do it at the same time everyday, they have a nice biological clock that says it's time to go," said Dr. Bixby.
Dr. Bixby said if you regularly walk your dog, you'll have a closer bond, your dog will be happier and more well-behaved.
For more information on Go Fetch Fitness, Click Here.
