Tag Archives: canine

FitLab Deep Creek Lab Lessons 10:25 Leash Length Matters

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek.

Leash Length Matters.

The Labs reluctantly acknowledge that they need to be kept under control when we hike…that’s one of the reasons we keep them on leash. We’ve learned that when it comes to leashes one length does not fit every situation. When we hike on single track or technical trails, we use shorter leashes for greater control. When we walk on double track or fire roads, we opt for longer leashes to give the Labs a LITTLE bit more room to roam. Gracie the cat doesn’t walk on a leash, but she was nice enough to make a guest appearance on this video.

Move more. Move often. Experiment to find the gear that works best for you (and your dogs).

FitLab Deep Creek Lab Lessons 9:25 Beware of Ticks

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek.

Beware of Ticks.

The Labs would like to remind you to keep your dogs (and yourself) safe from ticks. Spring is coming, along with rapidly changing temperatures in Western Maryland (and many parts of the country). While ticks are an issue year-round, they are more active as temperatures rise above freezing. Check your dogs (and yourself) after spending time outside. Consult your vet about the best tick medications for your dogs and ask about the Lyme disease vaccine. Consider tick spray and other preventative measures for yourself. Don’t be afraid to get outside, but take action to stay safe.

Move more. Move often. Move safely with your dogs.

 

FitLab Deep Creek Lab Lessons 8:25 Walk Your Dog

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek.

Walk Your Dog.

We recorded this video on National Walk Your Dog Day. The Labs don’t see the need for such a “holiday” because they think you should walk your dogs almost every day. If you don’t walk your dog(s) on a regular basis, try adding dog walking to your routine for a few weeks. The Labs predict regular dog walking will make you, and your dog(s), feel better.

Move more. Move often. Move with your dogs.

 

FitLab Deep Creek Lab Lessons 2:25 Things change. Keep moving.

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek.

Things change. Keep moving.

Recently, we’ve had enough snow on the ground to change the way the 2-legged members of the Fit Lab want to move. But we recognize that the Labs need their daily hikes. So the humans have adapted by wearing snowshoes. Because movement is a lifestyle for the Labs and the humans. Plus, tired Labs are happy Labs.

Move more. Move often. When things change, find ways to keep moving.

 

FitLab Deep Creek Lab Lessons 1:25 Make Time for Recovery

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek.

Make Time for Recovery.

The Labs ALWAYS want to Move More. Especially on cold, snowy days. However, their humans recognize the value of an active recovery day (an “easy” day). So we build rest days and active recovery days into their movement plan.

Move more. Move often. Whether you have 2 legs or 4, make time for rest and recovery in your movement routine.

FitLabPGH Lab Lessons 50:24 You Make the Rules

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:

You Make the Rules.

The Labs are always on leash when they’re outside (except in our fenced-in yard). Last week, inside the fenced-in yard, Abbie knocked Ben off the deck. Pictures her making a tackle in an NFL game. Ben is left with a cracked rib and the knowledge that he should have kept his eyes on Abbie. But he doesn’t hold it against her; she was just doing what he let her do. And he’s thankful he can still hike with the Labs. This is his reminder that we make the rules for our dogs. The Labs mostly accept the rules and are thankful for snow.

Move more. Move often. Setting boundaries for your dogs is good for dogs…and good for you.

FitLabPGH Lab Lessons 48:24 Eat well. Feel well.

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:

Eat well. Feel well.

The Holidays are coming…while every day is a holiday for the Labs, they know this is a special time for the humans. As you get together with friends and family and enjoy foods you might not eat the rest of the year, the Labs want to remind you that what you eat in the moment impacts how you feel later. Left to their own devices, the Labs will “snack” on sticks, acorns, pine cones, even animal 💩…this snacking may result in an upset stomach. The Labs have staff to monitor their snacking, but humans are on their own to enjoy the holiday food offerings. We’re not suggesting you avoid all holiday treats. Just remember that what you eat today may impact how you feel tomorrow.

Move more. Move often. Eat foods that leave you feeling good and ready to keep moving.

 

FitLabPGH Lab Lessons 47:24 Remember Your Pets Over the Holidays

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:

Remember Your Pets Over the Holidays.

The Holidays are coming…it’s a busy season: parties, shopping, work & family responsibilities. The Labs would like to remind you to take time for your pets. The holidays may disrupt the routine for your furry friends. Pets are part of the family. Make time to give your pets the attention they need.

The Labs wish you a happy, healthy, movement-filled holiday season.

FitLabPGH Lab Lessons 46:24 Move When You Can

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:

Move When You Can.

Sometimes “life” gets in the way of our movement plans. Emergency home repairs. Extra meetings at work. An illness or injury. When your movement routine gets derailed, remember that some movement is almost always better than no movement. You don’t need to crush your movement goals every week. Make as much time to move as you can, then get back to your routine when your schedule allows. Focus on the big picture of making movement part of your lifestyle.

Move more. Move often. Move when you can.

 

FitLabPGH Lab Lessons 45:24 We’re Maryland Dogs Now

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LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:

We’re Maryland Dogs Now…And Still On Leash.

The Labs have officially relinquished their Pennsylvania residency and have applied for licenses in Garrett County, Maryland. One thing has not changed with the move. They still hike on leash. Why? 1. They don’t know their way home, and they don’t want to get lost. 2. They can’t be trusted to make good decisions (especially when faced with skunks, porcupines, or deer to “play” with). 3. They know not all animals are friendly, and they want to stay safe. (They saw their first bear over the summer). So the Labs stay close to their human staff while making movement part of their lifestyle.

Move more. Move often. Get outside. Stay safe.