North West dog owners three times more likely to keep in shape than non-pet owners

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North West dog owners three times More likely to keep in shape than non-pet owners

Dog owners from the North West are taking the lead in living healthier and more active lifestyles, as a survey reveals that a staggering 41 percent of non-pet owners do not take any form of exercise at all, compared to 18 percent of dog owners. One in three people who don’t own a pet are overweight and only 19 percent exercise daily, compared to 70 percent of people who own a dog.

The research has been commissioned by the Kennel Club as part of the Get Fit with Fido 2013 campaign, which aims to help people to find fun and enjoyable ways to exercise with their dogs. 

While non-pet owners came out as the most overweight and the least likely to exercise, the research revealed that in battle of the bulge cat owners also lag behind dog owners, with one in four admitting that they take no exercise at all and one in three cat owners from the North West say they are obese.

Unsurprisingly, the survey found walking to be the most popular form of exercise, with more than 40 percent of people revealing it was their main form of exercise and over 50 percent of dog owners revealed they walked their dog for between 1-2 hours at a time.

The survey also found that the recession is having an effect, as more than 50 percent of dog and cat owners admit to no longer spending any money a month on exercise, making dog walking an even more attractive option.

The Kennel Club launched its Get Fit With Fido campaign in 2008 in response to the obesity epidemic in dogs and their owners. Supported by Rosemary Conley, the campaign gives people inspiring and interesting ideas for exercising with their dog, from simple dog walks to increasingly popular sports including agility and heelwork to music.

Rosemary Conley, the renowned exercise guru who backs the Kennel Club’s Get Fit With Fido Campaign, said: “It is shocking to see that so many people not only fail to exercise daily but many are failing to exercise at all.

“Daily exercise is so important for preventing obesity related illnesses such as heart disease, which is one of the biggest killers. Just half an hour of exercise a day will increase your metabolism, helping you to keep fit and stay in shape.

“Too many people see exercise as a chore but dog owners can enjoy spending quality time walking their dog, or taking part in sports such as agility, whilst keeping fit in the process.”

Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: “Whilst we cannot be complacent it is reassuring to see that dog owners are the people most likely to exercise in the North West, and at a time when money is tight and gym memberships dear, exercise with your dog is free or inexpensive, so is a great way to get fit.

“Get Fit With Fido was set up to inspire dog owners to find new and different ways to get fit with their dog. Just 15 minutes of brisk walking with your dog can burn 100 calories and agility is a fantastic way to keep fit. An hour of agility training with your dog can burn up to 700 calories for owners.”

Former Olympic swimmer and supporter of Get Fit With Fido, Sharron Davies commented: “Taking part in agility is a fantastic way for owners and their four-legged friends to improve both their health and fitness, as well as having lots of fun. Dogs make the perfect training partner and can motivate owners to put in the extra work to get fit.

“It’s so important not only to keep yourself fit but your dog too. Obesity is a problem in dogs and well as humans and getting fit with Fido is a fun alternative. ”