Walking the Dog as a Recreational Activity

Contribution by Stevie Kirby

Every afternoon, my dog and I go outdoors and walk around our neighborhood. My dog, who is close to two years old, is a black and white shih-tzu whose pedigreed name is Picasso, but whom my family and I call Speckles. He has black spots on his hind legs, thus his nickname.

He's the most energetic dog who greatly enjoys our afternoon excursions. He immediately grins and runs in circles when he sees me grab his leash and tell him it is time to go on a walk. Because he is a house dog, one that is small in stature, he generally does not need a great deal of exercise. However, his veterinarian recommends a daily walk to help keep him trim and to keep him curious and in a happy mood. We prefer to walk in the afternoons instead of in the mornings because the afternoon sun helps warm his coat. He also enjoys smelling the flowers and watching the birds while walking around our neighborhood.

On our way out the door, I pause to set my home security alarm from ALLHOMESECURITY and then close and lock the door. I allow him to smell around our front yard first to orient his senses to the outdoors. Then we head off on our walk. I try to keep a brisk pace to give Speckles a good workout.