Get healthy at the same time as your pet

Plus, how to check for any ear trouble.

You and your furry friend are good for each other in more ways than you may realise. Together, you can be healthier than you’d be separately, research has found. Simply put, “If your pet depends on you, you’re more likely to stick to a schedule,” explains nutritionist and fitness trainer Natalie Jill.

GET IN SHAPE TOGETHER

Most dogs need 30 to 45 minutes of daily movement. The Australian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend that adults get at least

150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, which equates to 30 minutes five times a week, so not all that different from your pet. “Start with something less strenuous, like short-range fetch or a quick walk,” says vet Dr Gary Richter. And, of course, training for Prevention’s Virtual Walk is another win-win for you and your dog!

Hiking is a great way to stimulate both your minds with new sights and smells. Jill suggests doing squats while playing fetch and running after the ball with your pup to raise both your heart rates. Dogs that get proper exercise will often show fewer destructive boredom- or anxietyrelated behaviours, says Dr Richter – and studies show that it reduces stress in humans too.

SHARE HEALTHY SNACKS

“The best thing you can do to keep your pet healthy is to give it optimal nutrition,” Dr Richter says. Processed, prepackaged snacks and treats often come with added sugar, salt and fat, so hit the produce aisle for treats you can share with your pet, says vet Dr Ernie Ward. Because cats maintain their weight more through their food bowl than with exercise, a healthy diet is especially important for them. Dr Ward suggests giving cats a few flakes of vacuum-packed tuna or salmon as a treat. The fish has protein and omega-3s to keep both your heart and your cat’s healthy.

DO SAME-TIME CHECK-UPS

Syncing your calendars can help keep the whole household on track. “Schedule both human and pet check-ups around the same time each year so you don’t forget,” Dr Richter advises. Be sure to bring along a list of the food you feed your pet, any medication they take and any questions you have. (That goes for your annual physical, too.) “The check-up provides a general health update and identifies any new or ongoing needs,” he says. And just as you tell your doctor about changes in your own body, watch your pet’s behaviour so you can address anything new with your vet.