LabLessons from FitLab Deep Creek:
Celebrate New Experiences…
Even if those experiences aren’t new to you. Abbie recently visited “Dog Rock” in Deep Creek Lake State Park. While Dog Rock is nothing new to the rest of the team, it was an exciting adventure for Abbie, and we took time to enjoy the experience with her. Remember, what is “old hat” to you may be an exciting first for one of your movement buddies. Embrace their joy.
Move more. Move often. Celebrate “new” experiences.
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:
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:
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.
Labrador Lesson from FitLabPGH:
Share the Trail.
As Labradors, we love to explore trails with our humans. We’ve been asked how we decide when to step aside to let oncoming trail users pass us. Because some trail users are intimidated by dogs, if it’s safe to do so, we step off the trail. Providing extra space for other trail users allows them to enjoy their trail time and leaves a positive impression of our trail dogs.
Move more. Move often. Share the trail.