If your tickle-loving tummy is too large and your bottom wiggles when you wag your tail it could be the start of a string of health issues. Just the same as humans, dogs carrying extra pounds of weight are putting extra demands on virtually all the organs in their bodies. Not only is this uncomfortable but it increases the risk of disease.  Experts warn that the risks in overweight and obese dogs include:

Diabetes

Damage to joints and ligaments

Heart disease and increased blood pressure

Difficulty breathing

Reduced stamina

Heat intolerance

Reduced liver function

Reproductive problems

Digestive disorders

Skin and coat problems

Increased risk of cancer

So if you’re panting before you’ve reached the end of the road, or you’re ready for a sit down after a quick lap of the garden it’s time to take action and get your human involved with our Walkies for Weightloss. Remember Walking can be done almost anywhere, it’s environmentally friendly and best of all, it’s FREE!

Here in North Yorkshire we have acres and acres of the most beautiful countryside, perfect for exploring as part of our Walkies for Weightloss.

The terrific team at the North York Moors National Park have put together a fantastic series of downloadable walks covering every corner of the Park including Spring daffs in Farndale, the legendary Hole of Horcum, romantic Rievaulx or beach-combing at Hayburn Wyke.

You and your human will be spoilt for choice!

While you’re enjoying the stunning scenery you can remind yourself of all the benefits of walking on you and your human, such as burning calories, maintaining a healthy weight, boosting metabolism, raising energy levels, improving circulation, promoting positive mental health and aiding sleep.

If your human wants to find out more about the benefits of walking this NHS site looks useful and we’d advise you both wrap up against the winter chill and follow the country code. You could even dress for the occasion with a snazzy coat or a new collar and lead.

And, if you want to take a few ‘selfies’ while you and your human are out and about we’d love to see them. It might just help spur on those canines that need a bit of encouragement to leave the fireside. Post your pictures on our Facebook page or upload to Instagram and tag them #WalkiesforWeightloss

The post How will walking for weightloss help an obese dog? appeared first on The Millbry Hill Blog: Life in the Country.