Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers 5/11
“Move It or Lose It”
Encouraging Healthy Dogs and Healthy Owners
Did you know that in the US, over 45% of dogs are now estimated to be overweight or obese according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention? Their human owners haven’t fared much better. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), during the past 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in the United States. In 2009, only Colorado and the District of Columbia had a prevalence of obesity less than 20%. And The Journal of Nutrition states that obese pet owners are up to three times more likely to have overweight dogs.
How can we motivate pet owners to take that first step toward getting off the sofa and doing something healthy?
There is no lack of media exposure for dog activities. Today’s pet owner can learn all about AKC Companion Events through traditional and non-traditional media outlets, including You Tube and Facebook. There are many opportunities for non-competitive recreational fun too: skijoring, swimming, hiking, kayaking, therapy work and more.
The foundation to all this fun begins of course with basic obedience. That’s why it is so important to promote the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and the STAR Puppy program. These programs not only teach the essentials of creating a well-behaved pet, but also discuss the role of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and reducing behavioral problems. The truth is that their owners benefit too from this daily exercise routine.
When the benefits of healthy daily walks and nutrition are encouraged in a class setting, awareness, camaraderie and social energy often result in informal meet-ups and group walks as students exchange contact information and plan play dates. And of course before starting any exercise program it’s a good idea for owners and their pets to get a checkup.
Instructors need to be one part trainer and one part public relations spokesperson. They are the key ingredient in introducing owners to that big world of dog events and activities. It is at this very beginning that the sense of joy and pride in working as a team develops, and our students need to know that anything is possible. We are the ambassadors that welcome them to the AKC family, and we want them to stay, learn and participate.
Equally as important are role models and mentors, who encourage owners to know more and do more. Each and every one of us has the power to influence others in a positive way concerning our passion for dog-related activities. It’s the little things we say that can help people get to the next step. Breeders can promote basic obedience training for their puppies and encourage their owners to attend companion events locally or even at their national specialty. Many owners are not aware that their pets are even eligible for AKC competition, and they really don’t know where to begin. This is a great opportunity! If you see a pet owner with that curious look at an event, why not introduce yourself after you’ve finished competing and make them feel welcome? You may see them return the next year as an entry!
Dorice Stancher 201.323.2514