It's officially my first day of being unemployed. I'll save the story of how I lost my last job for another entry. So far, I've applied for one job, sent a slew of emails, had a slew of instant message chats and did a slew of laundry. I've also committed to writing articles for The Scoop, the Tompkins Square dog run newsletter and have drafted two so far. My triathlon training partner asked me this morning how big the readership is for the newsletter. I have no idea, but I believe it's more than this blog....
The Perfect Running Mate (I'm thinking color picture of pooch next to a pair of flashy Nike's, a color sidebar)
If you’re like me, you’ve always dreamt of your ideal running companion. Someone who’s always motivated (because you’re mostly not). Someone who says little and moves with boundless energy (because you can barely breathe nevermind converse and are usually a footfall away from quitting). Someone who appreciates a large meal as a payoff for the hard work. Who could that someone be? It could be your dog. (It could be your couch.)
But before you take your best buddy out for a test run, make sure she’s a suitable partner:
Do you go to the small or extra-large dog run? If so, your dog is probably better suited for modeling positions on the couch rather than running. Dogs that are good running partners weigh 50 to 70 pounds and have medium builds. Distance runs will be too strenuous for small or very large breeds.
Does your dog snort or snore often?
If yes, your dog’s nose is probably cute and scrunchy, but too short to allow her to properly cool herself on long runs. Dogs with longer snouts have an easier time staying cool.
Does your dog have long, thick, dark hair? Although all the rage on runways and street corners, dogs with thick or dark hair are more sensitive to the heat. It doesn’t mean you can’t run with her but you need to be extra careful to carry water and keep her cool.
Is your dog house-trained? If your dog is a puppy, she’s not old enough to be your gym partner. Give her time to develop into an adult and check with your vet before taking her on the trail.
And if you do go out running with your dog:
Start slow. A 1/2 mile is a lot for your dog. Or if you’re my dog, a 1/4 of a 1/4 mile is a lot without a treat in front of your nose. Give your dog at least one day off between runs and increase no more than 10% each run.
Watch for any signs of fatigue. Your dog is eager to please you (or in my dog’s case, eager to get the treat in your pocket) and will do anything to keep up with you, even if over-tired. It’s up to you to stop if the dog slows down, staggers or looks uncomfortable in any way.
Be very sensitive to heat. You may feel fine, but you’re not wearing a fur coat (at least I don’t think you are). Carry extra water for your dog and if you’re running on pavement, make sure it’s not too hot. A dog cools off from the pads on its feet and its mouth. Hot pavement can lead to quick heat stroke.
Check the pads on your dog’s feet before and after every run. You’re dog’s not running in the latest Nike’s and pads are susceptible to damage, especially if you’re running on a hard surface.
Avoid high traffic areas. Your dog’s nose is the same level as the exhaust of a car or bus, and it’s hard enough to eke out some oxygen in the city as it is.
Train your dog to obey. Hold the leash tightly. Your dog should know and respect a heel command before you take her on a run, unless you’re not planning on enjoying your run.
These are just some basic, common sense rules. Before you take your dog on the road, it’s best to get clearance from your vet and to be aware of any problems specific to your dog in order to prevent injury.
