While a 1998 survey revealed the majority of dog owners spend time walking their dogs on a regular basis, an increase in pace would benefit both sides of the leash. The dog owner survey, sponsored by Rimadyl, indicated a majority of dog owners enjoy wandering through the park with their pet or other walking activities -- but all at a slow, leisurely pace.

Stepping up that pace will increase the heart rate and improve the well-being of both the dog owner and the dog. Even moderate levels, such as walking briskly for 30 minutes a day, benefit human health. And it's good for a dog's health, too. "Physical activity is an important part of keeping your dog healthy," says Bernadine Cruz, DVM, an associate veterinarian at Laguna Hills Animal Hospital in Laguna Hills, Calif. "Both young and old dogs need regular, sustained activity to stay healthy. It helps maintain or reduce weight, keeps their joints supple, keeps their muscles toned and keeps senior dogs acting young."

Dogs, like people, need to ease into fitness routines. "If you're starting a new exercise program with your dog, don't start with a five-mile run," Cruz says. "Start slowly and build up to longer exercise sessions -- especially if your dog hasn't been active lately." Even with a gradual warm-up, owners may notice their dogs showing signs of pain, limping or having difficulty keeping up. Signs can be subtle, and even dogs that exercise at a moderate level during the week without any signs of pain, may experience slight stiffness and soreness after stepping up the pace at the weekend. "This shouldn't be mistaken for a sign to stop exercise, rather as a sign to visit your veterinarian," says Cruz. "If your dog is diagnosed with arthritis, exercise is a critical part of the therapy.

"Fortunately, the medication Rimadyl (carprofen) can help ease the pain and inflammation of arthritis and allow your dog to enjoy a fitness program. It's important your dog uses his affected leg or legs to prevent atrophy and to avoid putting excess strain on his healthy limbs. "I've seen great results with Rimadyl in my practice -- dogs that were once trailing behind on their daily walk are now giving their owners a run for their money."