GRANT:
My dog Ébène got fat this winter watching reruns of Littlest Hobo and TSNs coverage of the Westminster Dog Show.
I’m just kidding she did some killer snow shoe trails.
But anyway, it’s spring and it’s time for her to work off some of those extra pounds. It’s back to pounding the pavement, but I want to do it right. I don’t want her ripping the pads of her paws or coming up lame in a leg. She needs to be built up slowly with a gradual walk/run program.
Basically, I am taking a human’s Couch to 5K program and using it to get Ébène back into shape.
VICKY:
Hence the catchy title “Kick the Couch: Poodle to 5K Program”. I like it! Tell me more.
GRANT:
She’ll walk/run 3 times a week with me. In about 2 months she will be up to 5K, which is about the distance of my regular maintenance/recovery runs. Once she has completed the program, I will be able to take her out 3 or 4 times a week.
VICKY:
That sounds like an excellent plan for Ébène. However folks, if you plan on running with your dog, please speak with your veterinarian BEFORE you start running with them. Not all dogs are as athletic and tough as the majestic poodle (see photo of Bambi on the right). Have you started the program yet?
GRANT:
Right now we are running one minute, walking 90 seconds for about a half an hour. I will keep you updated on our progress.
It is my opinion that you really do need to have a running program for your dog. Going out and just running with your dog is a sure way to get him or her hurt. They will always try to keep up. It’s in their nature. But they will have injured legs in no time. Please be careful and don’t forget to talk to your vet.
VICKY:
Any tips for us dog owners out there?
GRANT:
First of all, adopt a standard poodle.
VICKY:
Funny.
GRANT:
The standard poodle is the greatest dog and the greatest running partner because of its outstanding intellect and loyalty. Ébène runs right beside me. She is very focused and very dedicated to her job. I like to talk to her while I am running and I compliment her on what a great dog she is. She is a unilingual francophone so I will say things like, “Ébène, tu es une très bonne fille. Mon Dieu Ébène que tu cours bien. Tu es très belle Ébène.” She looks up at me with her beautiful black eyes and I can tell she is so proud to be running beside me. Dogs are the best running partners you will ever find!
