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Dogs living in North West
are among most exercised in England
DOGS living in the North West of England are
likely to get more exercise than hounds living in different parts of the
country, according to a new survey. The survey, of more than 3,000 dog owners
across the country, showed that 73% of dogs living in the region have 2 to 3
walks a day, compared to the national figure of 68%.
The survey was commissioned in the lead up to the RSPCA's Big Walkies challenge
in October, which invites people to walk 10,000 steps a day, with or without a
dog, to raise money for animals in need. The results also found that 41% of dogs
in the North West have a walk of over an hour a day, compared to 35% nationally.
The survey also showed that, in the North West the dog owners who responded
reported that:-
► 50% of dogs go out for a walk at least twice a day,
while 5% don't go out for a walk at all.
► 21% of dog owners always let their dogs play with other dogs while out for a
walk.
Nationally, the survey suggested that
Dogs in London have the 'best walkies' in England, as their owners
reported that they are most likely to be walked at least once a day with almost
½ having 2 strolls a day, and they are more likely to be allowed off the lead,
play with other dogs and have a ball or toy to play with:-
► 44% of owners said that their dogs go out for a walk
at least twice a day, while 6% don't get a daily walk at all.
► Nationally, 49% of dog owners reported to a daily
walk of 30 minutes to an hour; 27% go out for 1 to 2 hours, and 9% for more than
2 hours.
► 28% of dog owners report to always let their dogs off their leads during a walk,
while 18% never go off their leads.
► Animal lovers who sign up to My Big Walkies will pledge to walk at least 10,000
steps a day; approximately 5 miles; with or without their dog throughout
October while being sponsored to do so.
► If they complete the challenge animal lover will have clocked up 155 miles in
October; the same as walking from Blackpool to Skegness.
Dog loving singer Peter Andre who is supporting the RSPCA Big Walkies challenge,
said:- "It's important to remember how much happiness dogs bring to our
lives. Sadly there are many dogs which are ill treated every day and the RSPCA
works incredibly hard to combat animal cruelty.
I encourage dog-owners to sign up for My Big Walkies. Taking part will help
raise money which will enable the RSPCA to carry out this vital work.
It's also a fantastic opportunity to get out and about with your dog, while
helping less fortunate dogs at the same time. It'll be fun, great for your
health and fitness, great for your dog and it's all for a fantastic cause - the RSPCA."
Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA's dog welfare
expert, said:- "The results from our survey suggest that where we live has
an impact on how we exercise our dogs.
London dogs in particular appear to have more opportunities to do what many dogs
love; playing with other dogs and their owners as well as toys and balls.
There are some very lucky pooches in the capital, but no matter where you live,
you and your dog can enjoy some great walks.
Taking your dog for a walk can have huge benefits for both of you. For many
people dogs are a huge part of the family, and exercising with them offers great
opportunities to spend quality time together and helps form a strong bond. It
can also boost your own fitness and happiness levels.
For dogs, having a good sniff and investigating their surroundings while on a
walk can boost their health and happiness.
There are also huge benefits to you as a dog owner; as a recent study showed
that a brisk 10 minute walk a day can add years to your life. So imagine the
benefits you will reap by walking 10,000 steps a day!"
The level of exercise a dog needs will depend on their age, breed and health and
10,000 steps may be too much for some dogs. So if owners aren't sure how much
exercise their dog needs we would advise them to seek advice from their vet.
To find out more and to signing up
online for:- 'My Big Walkies.'
5 top dog walking locations in the North West of
England are as follows:-
1. Tarn Hows, Lake District.
2. Hurstwood Reservoir, Lancashire.
3. Royden Country Park, Merseyside.
4. Brereton Nature Reserve, Cheshire.
5. Rickerby Park, Cumbria.
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