Paws in Motion: Fun Ways to Stay Active With Your Pet Year-Round

Stay active with your pet in the winter

When the winter chill sets in, you can keep your pet active by dashing through the snow or staying cozy on the couch. Try these ideas:

• Snow play — Take your pet out for a romp in the snow and watch them run, jump, and burrow under the white stuff. Monitor your furry pal closely, to ensure they don’t get too cold, and outfit them in a warm jacket if they will tolerate wearing clothes.
• Indoor fetch — When the weather outside is too frightful for play, clear a hallway for indoor games, such as fetch.
• Get vertical — Create safe climbing spaces for your cat by clearing the top of your refrigerator or high shelves. You can also install floating shelves around your home, so your feline friend can survey their domain from an elevated spot.
• Short but sweet — If you have a pet who is cold-sensitive, such as a small or shorthaired pet or an older furry pal, take short walks and keep them moving to help prevent overexposure to the cold.

Stay active with your pet in the spring

When spring flowers start emerging, it’s time to shake off the winter blues and get moving. Spring’s warmer weather and longer days provide the perfect opportunity for you and your pet to explore the great outdoors and enjoy new adventures. Here are a few options:

• Nature walks — Explore local trails or parks and let your pet investigate and sniff to their heart’s content.
• Doggy playdates — If your pup is sociable and plays well with others, schedule a meet-up with a friend’s dog so they can frolic and play.
• Fetch and hunt — Find a safe outdoor area to play fetch with your dog. And, don’t forget your feline friend! Use a wand toy or laser pointer to help them burn off excess energy.
• Obstacle course — Using household items, such as cardboard boxes, wooden boards, chairs, brooms, and buckets, create a fun agility course for your pet in your backyard.

Stay active with your pet in the summer

As temperatures rise, you and your pet can enjoy some fun summertime activities, and perhaps find ways to cool down at the same time. Check out these ideas:

• Splish splash — If you have a pool, take a dip with your pet, ensuring they are comfortable in the water. Or, you can cool down by setting up a sprinkler in your yard and chasing your pet through the spray.
• Beat the heat — When the summer heat and humidity arrive, walk your pet during the early mornings and evenings to avoid the hottest times of the day.
• Stick to the shade — Hot pavement can be dangerous for your pet’s sensitive paws. Find shady trails where you and your four-legged friend can stay cool and their paws won’t be burned.
• Interactive toys — Stay cool inside and use interactive puzzle feeders to keep your furry pal mentally and physically stimulated.

Stay active with your pet in the fall

Fall’s crisp autumn air is practically begging you and your four-legged friend to get out and explore. Resist the urge to stay by the fire with your pumpkin spice latte, and take your pet on a fun fall adventure. Consider these options:

• Leaf pile plunge — After breaking a sweat raking your yard, let your pet have a little fun by jumping and rolling in the leaves. Their antics will provide endless entertainment, as well as an excellent photo op to post on social media.
• Leaf peeping — Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage and take your pet on long strolls on scenic trails. You can enjoy the changing colors and the cooler autumn temperatures.
• Pumpkin picking — If your family enjoys pumpkin picking, choose a pet-friendly farm, so your four-legged friend can tag along.
• Tug-of-war — To warm up, try a simple, fun game of tug-of-war, which can be enjoyed inside or outdoors.

Regardless of the season, staying active with your pet helps keep them healthy, strengthens your bond, and creates wonderful memories. Contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for more tips to keep your pet active all year long.