Question of the Day: Water Exercise

[WagNBragShane]

<p>Hello WagnBraggers!</p>
<p>I'm starting a series of "Question of the Day" threads in various threads. Each day I hope to post a question in a few threads (different ones each day) about a variety of topics. Please feel free to join in the conversation and share your opinion, stories, expertise, etc.</p>
<p>Today's health and wellness question is inspired by an earlier post about exercise by Arlene (Allin1PetCare). Arlene reminds us that 15 minutes of swimming for your dog is equal to one mile of walking.</p>
<p>So, how many of you use swimming as part of your dog's exercise routine? Where do you go swimming with Fido? Your own pool? The lake? A doggie spa? What inspired you to add swimming to the routine?</p>

[Allin1PetCare]

<p>Hi there,</p>
<p>We go to the&nbsp;beach which is pretty close and the waves make the dogs work a little harder.&nbsp; I always tell my "toy" clients to use their tub. Pools are fine, just a couple of thinkgs to keep in mind: too much chlorine exposure can cause&nbsp;skin irritations, and you should provide a ramp for entry, exit and safety. Speaking of Safety: don't forget your doggy lifevests!</p>
<p>Be blessed,</p>
<p>Arlene, All In One Pet Care</p>

[acewells]

<p>Our dog Heidi came to us after having suffered a broken leg that really would have benefited from surgery, but it had already healed too much to put her through the trauma. She instinctively swims in our pool, which is so convenient because it's ideal exercise for her. The only downside is it's not so great for her already irritated skin so we have had to begin discouraging her from swimming. Some day we may be able to purchase a salt water filtration system and then she could swim without the negative side effects. We also try to cut back on the pool chemicals. She did recover rapidly and in spite of not having her leg properly set, it seems really strong. I attribute that to the benefits of swimming.</p>