Every year, National Walk the Dog Day falls on February 22nd. This fun awareness day helps promote exercise for both dogs and their parents, helps establish and build strong bonds through quality time spent together on walks, and provides a new environment for your dog to explore.
Where did this day come from?
The exact date and who established National Walk the Dog Day is currently unknown. It is thought, but not confirmed, to have started somewhere around 1960 when Jim Buck became the first professional dog walker in New York City. During the 1960s, the female role in society began to change, and now more than ever, women began entering the workforce. Because of this, the family dog was left home alone for long hours and daily walks became less frequent. As a result, families started hiring people to come and take their dogs for walks during the day while they were at work. Since then, professional dog walkers have gained popularity and are now a full-time job for some! (source Petmate)
Ideas on how to celebrate?
1. Try a new path to walk - the change up to their routine will become a great enrichment exercise. Adds some excitement and an easy change to the daily walkies.
2. Grow your pack - invite a friend to walk with you. If their dog(s) are friendly with yours, it will make the time... well... more exciting for them.... chaotic, possibly, for you. Ah... it's their walk! hehe
3. Incorporate play - add elements of play that include a hunting game (hiding treats or their favorite toys), puzzle games, or a game of fetch. Moving both their body and their minds.
#walkthedogday #walkyourdogday