Exercising your Dog

We described how the dog sport of Fast CAT works, and you can read the post here.  One of the great things about Fast CAT is that every dog can participate.  It doesn’t matter how fast they run, if they run slower it may take them longer to earn a title, but they won’t be disqualified for a lack of speed.  In fact, I believe the only way to be disqualified is if the dog attacks another person or dog, or if the dog relieves herself on the course.  Addi learned this the hard way, when after a run she stopped for a potty break.  She was on grass, so I couldn’t fault her, and she still had fun during the run.

If you are looking to rank your dog in Fast CAT, then helping them to get their best score, might be one of your priorities.  One of the key things to achieve this, other than encouraging your dog’s enthusiasm for the sport, is to make sure they are physically fit.  Overweight dogs, or dogs who are not used to running, will not be able to run very fast.  It doesn’t mean they can’t try Fast CAT, I watched an older French bulldog stroll down the course, taking his own sweet time, but also enjoying himself immensely.  

Since our girls are young and fit, and giving their best effort at chasing the lure, I have been watching their AKC ranking.  My employers gave me a scooter for my work anniversary this Summer, so I’ve  been using it to help Addi increase her speed.  I cannot run with her, so I ride the scooter and Addi runs along side, which she loves!  We also do walks and hikes with the collies, which helps keep them healthy and fit, but the scooter really helps build speed and endurance.  I can’t use it with the older collies, as I’m always mindful of their age limitations, so for them it’s strictly walks and easy hikes.  But we are curious, do you exercise your dogs?  How do you get them the exercise they need?