Doga: Yoga for Dogs

Not just humans, pets also seem to have put on weight during the months-long lockdown induced by the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s time that owners must take them for long walks to burn calories.

These days, as gymnasiums and workout clubs have started reopening after the long corona-induced lockdown, we often get to hear every other person sharing how they have restarted fitness regimes to shed the extra kilos that gained during the isolation period. Whatever may be the reasons, if you are eager to get back to the tracks considering it’s not too late, then please take a closer look at the love handles of your doggo and cat babies, who are as concerned about their weight gain as you are.

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This may have brought a smile to your face but on a serious note, the rise in the number of pets beefing up due to the lockdown has become a cause of concern for many pet parents. Months of staying home, bingeing over food and cooped-up on a sofa with their parents to watch OTT platforms has resulted in weight gain, laziness and a gloomy state of mind. People “might be finding it difficult to help their pets reach their daily activity goals due to stay-at-home directives, with many pet owners likely avoiding dog parks, going on long walks or utilizing services like dog walkers

According to a study conducted by Washington-based Wakefield Research for Banfield Pet Hospital, about 33 per cent of pets have beefed up since the lockdown started in March. Of the 1,000 animal owners surveyed in May, around 25 per cent of participants informed the researchers that their pet only gained “a little weight,” while 8 per cent answered that their furry friends “gained a lot of weight,” as per the data. And the proof is in the pudding: 40 per cent of respondents said they are feeding their pets more snacks and treats since the COVID-19 outbreak started.

Therefore, keeping in view the well being of their pets, pet parents should think of doing DOGA: Dog Yoga (It is the practice of yoga as exercise with pet dogs) with their pets. The diet is a critical factor in this case as it contributes to excessive calories. Therefore, it is vital to chart out a plan for the meal based on the fitness regime. The owners can also make a few changes, like increasing or decreasing a specific substance. It is better to minimise treats during this season as it contributes to the weight. Cutting back on your pet’s usual food and reducing treats may be sufficient for pets who only need to make a small adjustment to their weight. But careful management is needed for those who need to lose large amounts of weight because a greater reduction in food could lead to depriving them of essential nutrients, which in turn can lead to them becoming hungry and increasing their begging behaviours. If your dog or cat is obese then it’s better that you should consult your vet practice to discuss their dietary requirements.

Secondly, regular exercise for your dog to a level that is appropriate for its size, age, breed, health, and ability is of utmost importance. Consult your vet practice if you are unsure of how much your pet should be able to do. With cats you can begin with 2 minutes twice a day just to encourage movement which can be gradually increased over time.

Meanwhile, long walks and outdoors games may help to a much larger extent. However, the pet owner can devise some indoor activities to keep them active. This will help them to burn a few calories and also entertain them. Seek expert advice - Veterinarians and animal experts can provide guidance on how to handle the pet during this time. There are also specialist companies who offer counselling and support.

Yoga is one of the best exercises that your pets can perform, along with you, to stay healthy. We know that the ancient spiritual and physical practice of yoga is decidedly a human invention, but that doesn’t mean that adorable animals can’t get in on the fun also! It is recommended that you give your dog/cat a massage from the head to the tail, gently. Always remember that the will of your pet to do a certain posture must be respected, and if they do not want to do a certain yoga pose, they do not have to. With time, they will come to love yoga and enjoy it with you.

So maybe not all of these funny animals are doing yoga, but the resemblance between their poses and a few popular yoga stretches is uncanny. Some yoga poses, like upward- and downward-facing dog, are clear nods to the fact that our domesticated friends came up with these poses before we did. While they may not be feeling the spiritual context that many people associate with the practice of yoga, you can tell from these cute photos that they still love a good stretch. Till then, take care of yourself and help the same to your furry friend as well.

From the November 2020 issue of FHM India.