Heart healthy pets

It may be the dead of winter but these dogs aren't barking the blues.

 "Because it's so cold and the weather is so unpredictable we do a lot with Day Care," said Lynn Rhodes-Hajos.

The pups are having a ball at Canterbury tails in Green Bay, a doggie day camp where they run around and play with other pets. Lynn Rhodes-Hajos is the owner and manager. She says when the dogs come in they're itching to have some fun.

They can run a little, blow of steam," said Lynn Rhodes-Hajos.

Bringing them to a place like this is just one way to keep your pet heart healthy in winter.
 
"It also helps with keeping them lean and in shape," said Dr. Mark Thornborrow.

Dr. Mark Thornborrow from the Animal Hospital of Howard says animals don't often get the exercise they need in the winter months, and that's when they put on weight.

"Eighty percent of the dogs we see are obese, and that's the leading cause of heart disease, "said Dr. Mark Thornborrow.

But activity can help them shave off extra pounds.

Dr. Mark says doggie day camps like this are not only beneficial for your dog's physical health, but emotional health as well.

"Dogs as a whole are typically very social animals so getting interaction with dogs is important. Also being alone causes anxiety problems so dogs who deal with separation anxiety and that type of thing will benefit from being exposed to other dogs," said Dr. Mark Thornborrow.

A balanced diet is also crucial and Dr. Thornborrow says that could include some table scraps.

"You want to avoid grizzly and fatty cuts of meat.  A nice healthy piece of meat, and vegetables for the most part are okay for dogs," said Dr. Mark Thornborrow.

And keeping your dog heart healthy isn't just good for them, but your wallet as well.

"Heart disease is like a person. You start out with one prescriptionbut as time goes on the dog ends up with a full medicine cabinet and they are not inexpensive, "said Dr. Mark Thornborrow.

But these playful pups seem to have no problems with the heart, judging at least by their kisses and cuddles.