The Villages - July 2019 - 29

OBESITY AND OUR PUPS - A SHARED EPIDEMIC

Most people are aware of the obesity epidemic, and the problem
extends to our canine community.
"Looking at our national statistic, we have a huge percentage of dogs
that are battling obesity, too," she said. "If we can get them working on
that and prevent osteoarthritis, diabetes and some of the really grim
disease processes that come as a result of their obesity, why not?"
While dog walking offers sunshine and movement, K9 Fit Club classes
offer more advanced conditioning.
"'Butts, Guts and Mutts,' for example, is a program that gets people
and their pets working on those trouble areas," Mosley said. "Strength
training is so beneficial, especially for those long-bodied breeds that
really need a strong core to prevent spinal injuries. There are a lot of
prevention strategies that go into these programs. It's not just about
weight reduction."
Small groups keep the classes manageable, Mosley said. She works
with up to six pairs at a time, which allows for better training and oneon-one interaction.
Take a class and you'll see legs lunging and paws pouncing on aerobic
platforms, balance boards and Bosu balls. As dogs learn new tricks, they
receive praise in the upbeat setting.
"They're walking up and over surfaces - doing things they've not
previously done and that builds their confidence," Mosley said. "Our
dogs can tell when we're proud of them. They get so excited."
K9 Fit Club programs encompass a range of exercises for every dog
and human, including "Rover Run Club," "Tai Chi Wa Wa," "Waggin'
Wheel Chair" and "Pupilates."
"All breeds are welcome and I can work with any fitness level," Mosley
said. "I just need to develop a plan and determine what's safe."
For those struggling to commit to a healthier lifestyle - the answer
may lie at the end of the leash.
"I've had workout buddies bail out on me," Mosley said. "But my dog
will never say no. They're the best accountability partners around."
For class information,
contact Darian Mosley
352-299-5673
villagesk9fitclub.com

MAGAZINE

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http://www.villagesk9fitclub.com
The Villages - July 2019

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