18 January 2010
CALLING ALL DOG OWNERS –
YOUR CANNY CANINE IS ON TO SOMETHING!
“Walk!” It’s a word that is guaranteed to prick-up the ears of every dog, but owners
would do well to listen too, because keeping your dog healthy also keeps you healthy.
Recent Australian research suggests that dog owners are 57% more likely to be
sufficiently physically active than those without pets.
Walking is an easy and accessible form of physical activity for virtually everyone,
irrespective of age and fitness levels. A brisk walk for at least 30 minutes, five times a
week, will keep you healthy. Don’t have 30 minutes to spare? Don’t worry – three
bursts of 10 minutes is just as good.
“Regular physical activity has been shown to help with sleep, feelings of happiness
and confidence, and improve strength, balance and coordination,” said Tony Thirlwell,
Heart Foundation CEO – NSW.
“If you need more motivation to get walking, why not join a Heart Foundation Walking
group? Groups are available across Australia and best of all they’re free. Apart from
the benefits for your heart health, it’s also a great way to make new friends and get
out into the community.
“A whopping 38 percent of us own a dog, and if all dog owners in Australia regularly
walked them for even 30 minutes a day, the direct healthcare cost savings could be
as much as $175 million per year,” he added.
Like walking, it has long been recognised that pet ownership is also good for your
overall health and wellbeing. So dog owners unite - put on your walking shoes, put
paws to the pavement and get walking. Your dog will love it, and so will your heart!
ENDS
For more information contact Kerry Kalcher, NSW Media and Communications Manager
T: (02) 9219 2433 M: 0401 672 128 E: kerry.kalcher@heartfoundation.org.au
About the Heart Foundation: Australia's leading voice on heart health, the Heart Foundation
saves lives and improves health through funding world class cardiovascular research,
guidelines for health professionals, informing the public and assisting people with
cardiovascular disease. As a charity, the Heart Foundation relies on donations and gifts in
Wills to continue its lifesaving research, education and health promotion work.
WALK THIS WAY TO A HEALTHIER HEART
If being more active is one of your New Year resolutions try this:
1.
Set realistic goals – like walking your dog each day!
2.
Try walking with others – they keep you motivated and committed
3.
Find ways to make being active a part of your daily routine
A great way to do this is through Heart Foundation Walking – to find a group in
NEWS 
