Ready to run? Great! Now here are a couple of tips to get you and your dog off on the right foot (paw)…

 

To register for the "My Dogs are Barking" 5k Road Race go to www.rescueleague.org

Despite all our best attempts at starting a new running program, continuing your running program, or, taking it to the next level, it all starts with proper running shoes. Running shoes can be found almost anywhere. And there are so many different brands these days, it might feel overwhelming. Couple of things to consider when making this very important investment: 1) if you are new to running and aren’t sure what ‘kind’ of foot you have, it’s worth it to go to a running specialty store and get an experienced salesperson (usually a runner themselves) to help you. You may have a flat-foot, high-arch or a normal foot. Let them help you figure that out first and then you can base your shoe selection on that helpful information. 2) Your running shoes should actually be a ½ size or a full size bigger than you normally wear for everyday shoes. Your feet swell a bit when you run, and you will want that extra toe room. This helps alleviate blisters and black-nails. 3) If you are a seasoned runner, you may not need the assistance of a specialty store and you could probably find your new running shoes on your own. Runners are a funny bunch, we tend to stick to what we know works and don’t even try to introduce us to something new J. 4) Don’t get caught up in the sexiness of a racing shoe (aka racing flats). Unless you’re running is at a point where you are doing specific speed work and you are running road races to improve your times, all you need is a regular running shoe (aka training shoe). 5) Wear your running shoes for running. And not for anything else. We wear down our footwear differently based on the activities we do in them. In order to keep your running shoe supporting you while you run, limit their usage just for running. Also, this helps to extend the life of your running shoe.

What about our dogs? While there are actually shoes for dogs, helping them specifically for things such as hiking over rough terrain or walking through snow and ice, dogs don’t need a new pair (or two actually) of running shoes. BUT, we should be mindful of how their paws are doing. One of the best recommendations I have for your dog’s paw comfort is a product that is equally effective protecting them in the winter, as in the summer, check it out: http://musherssecret.net/index.html