Presented by Vetnique, the home of YuMOVE
Participating in Guiding Eyes WAGATHON is more than just logging miles – it’s about celebrating the bond you share with your dog while supporting a cause that changes lives. Each walk is an opportunity to stay active, enjoy time together, and make an impact.
To help you and your pup get the most out of every stride, our friends at Vetnique, the home of YuMOVE, have put together these expert tips to keep your WAGATHON walks safe, comfortable, and tail-wagging fun.
Start Slow and Build Up: If your pup isn’t used to long walks or is still growing, ease into a routine. Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the duration based on your dog’s age, breed, and fitness level. Puppies under 14 months shouldn’t exceed 3 miles per day (to avoid putting too much strain on developing joints).
Pro Tip: Let your dog set the pace. Walking should be fun and energizing, not tiring or overwhelming.
Mind the Weather and Paw Safety: Dogs are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Hot pavement in summer can burn paw pads, while icy or salted roads in winter can lead to cracking or irritation. Before heading out for a walk, touch the pavement with the back of your hand – if it’s too hot or too cold for you, it’s too harsh for your dog.
Post-walk: Gently clean paws with a damp, soapy cloth or paw wipe to remove debris, salt, or chemicals.
Hydration Is Key: Bring fresh, clean water for your dog and offer it to them frequently, especially on warmer days or longer routes. Avoid letting them drink from puddles or standing water, which can contain harmful bacteria or parasites. Watch for signs of overheating, like heavy panting, drooling, or slowing down. Find shade and take breaks as needed.
Gear Up for Safety: Choose a well-fitted harness to reduce the strain on their muscles and joints and to give you more control. Always use a leash, even if your dog is well-trained—especially during events or in unfamiliar areas.
Pro Tip: For early morning or evening walks, wear reflective clothing and attach a light-up collar or tag to your dog for visibility.
Stay Aware and Watch for Warning Signs: Always monitor your dog closely during and after walks for signs of fatigue or joint discomfort. Watch for things like lagging behind, limping, stiffness, or a reluctance to walk can indicate it’s time to rest – or talk to your vet.
After walking in grassy or wooded areas, check your dog for ticks and make sure flea and tick prevention is up to date.
YuMOVE by Vetnique: Walking is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support your dog’s physical and emotional health. With a little planning and support from YuMOVE, you can help your pup stay active and comfortable not just during WAGATHON but for many walks to come.
YuMOVE is Vetnique’s vet-recommended joint supplement designed to support joint structure, mobility, and ease of movement. Backed by over 15 years of clinical research, YuMOVE helps dogs stay comfortable and active—so they can keep wagging their way through every walk.
Learn more about how YuMOVE supports healthy joints HERE.
Join the Fun: There’s still time to register for WAGATHON and start making every walk count! When you sign up, you’ll be part of a community of dog lovers walking to change lives—one stride at a time. Whether it’s a short stroll or a long hike, every mile you and your pup log helps provide guide dogs free of charge to people with vision loss.
