LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Why do we have dogs?
People have asked us: why do we have dogs? Here are three semi-serious reasons why. 1. The Labs keep us moving…even when less-than-ideal weather makes us want to stay home. 2. They keep us humble. Picking up dog poop is an excellent reminder that the world doesn’t revolve around us. 3. No matter how bad our day is going, the Labs think we’re great…as long as we remember to feed them.
Move more. Move often. Move with dogs.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Be Patient with New Movement Buddies.
Abbie the Black Lab joined the FitLab team around 1 month ago. There has been a bit of frustration during the first month of walks because Abbie is not an experienced trail dog. But with time, patience, and practice, Abbie is adapting to our movement routine. Whether your movement team members are human or canine, be patient during the learning curve.
Move more. Move often. Be patient with new team members.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Please, Don’t Sneak Up on Us.
The Labs know their human staff tries hard to be aware of their surroundings during trail hikes. Occasionally, the Labs distract the humans by eating inappropriate items on the trail (sticks, acorns, etc…). For that reason, the Labs would like to remind all trail users to give notice when passing others from behind. “Sneaking” up on people might scare them off the trail!
Move more. Move often. Give notice when approaching other trail users from behind. Do your part to help all trail users enjoy their experience.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Make Time for Fun.
The Labs know humans have responsibilities other than caring for their dogs…they don’t UNDERSTAND…but they KNOW. They also know that, as Labradors, they are responsible for reminding the humans to make time for fun. Even on busy days, they encourage us to get outside for a walk in the woods.
Move more. Move often. Get outside. Make time for fun.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Be Aware of Your Surroundings.
As we’re training Abbie the Black Lab to be a responsible trail dog, we are especially conscious of our surroundings on the trails. We stay alert for other trail users (human and animal). When possible, we step off the trail to allow other users to pass…because not everyone wants a close encounter with an energetic lab.
Move more. Move often. Be willing to yield. Share the trail.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Meet Abbie.
We weren’t expecting to add a member to the FitLab team so soon after losing Maggie the Black Lab. But when Puddin’s breeder (Newlander Labradors) let us know Puddin’s grand-niece was available, we couldn’t resist! Abbie is an 11 month old black Labrador, and she seems excited to join the FitLab Deep Creek team. So please help us welcome Abigail, aka Abbie, and look for her words of wisdom in future Labrador Lessons.
Move more. Move often. Move with friends, old and new.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Enjoy Your Movement.
Puddin is still not accustomed to being an only dog, especially on her walks, but we make sure she gets to go outside and enjoy her movement. If you want to make movement part of your lifestyle, it helps to enjoy your movement activities. Puddin not only loved the scents on her Sniffy Sunday walk, she also made use of the video break to roll around. We’re doing our best to keep her entertained until we find her the right furry friend.
Move more. Move often. Even when you’re sad, try to enjoy your movement.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Stay Positive on the Trail.
Puddin has noticed that there is a lot of negativity on social media…even on Facebook groups for trail enthusiasts 😳. Dog walkers complain about cyclists. Cyclists complain about walkers. Everyone complains about SOMETHING. Puddin encourages people to focus on their own behavior and safety. If you behave in a way that keeps you (and your dogs) safe on the trail, the trail will be a more positive place for everyone.
Move more. Move often. Tune in for weekly wisdom from Labradors.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Just Keep Moving.
Last week, we lost Maggie the Black Lab to a fast-growing spinal tumor. We are sad (massive understatement)…and Puddin the Yellow Lab is also sad. But the best thing for all of us is to keep moving. We’re honoring Maggie’s memory by hiking trails she loved. And we’re creating a new normal for Puddin by keeping her moving.
Move more. Move often. Even when you’re sad…especially, when you’re sad…Keep moving. Remember the good times.
LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Heatwave Safety Tips for Dogs.
Due to the current heatwave impacting much of the country, we’re bringing you a bonus Lab Lesson – 5 tips to keep dogs (and their humans) safely moving through the summer heat. 1) Get out early (or late) to avoid mid-day heat. 2) Choose soft surfaces if possible (cooler on paws). 3) Choose shade if possible. 4) Let the dogs set the pace (but be ready to slow them down or shorten the walk as needed). 5) Make plenty of water stops.
Move more. Move often. Stay safe so that you can keep moving in any weather.