Playing Fetch with a Branch? That’s a Sticky Situation

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Playing with your dog is an amazing opportunity to bond with them, while burning off both physical and mental energy- for the both of you!

But not all games are created equal. Fetch, for example, is many people’s go-to for outside play. And rightfully so, as it’s probably one of the first things humans and dogs ever did together.

Harnessing your dog’s natural prey drive for some fun can end in heartbreak, though. The culprit? That aforementioned, natural stick or branch.

Get the whole story in the video below, and then “stick” around to get the scoop on alternatives that won’t leave your dog and you hurting, physically and financially.

So now that you might be shaking like a leaf (okay, we’ll knock it off with the vegetation puns), here are some things you can do for a better, safer game of fetch.

Make sure your dog gets warm-up & cool-down time

Just like their humans, dogs really do much better before and after working up a sweat when they have time and the chance to warm up and cool down.

Our tip: Kick things off with a light walk and end with some gentle stretching to keep your pup nice and limber.

Keep things varied

Variety is the spice of life- for dogs and humans alike. After a while, dogs will get bored too. And just like your grandma said, idle hands are the Devil’s playthings.

Our tip: Don’t settle for the park every single time. Take your fetch game to the next level by trying grass, sand, or even a shallow water area (for water-loving pups) to mix things up!

Use the right item

So you already know sticks and/or branches are probably not a good idea. But what about tennis balls? Those are classic, right? Well, yes, and they’re fine- when they’re in good condition, at least. Given time, even the gentlest of pups will tear apart a tennis ball, potentially leading them to swallow what’s inside. And you don’t want that.

Our tip: Rubber balls can usually withstand more wear and tear. Just make sure the one you use is the appropriate size for your doggo. Remember the Goldilocks principle- not too big and not too small but just right.

Keep an eye on the thermostat

Fetch is, theoretically speaking at least, a game for all seasons. All you need is a (safe) throwable item, a throwing arm that doesn’t have to be on Shohei Ohtani’s level, and… that’s it. But weather is the X-factor, potentially throwing a monkey wrench into your plans.

Our tip: On hot days, fetch is best played during cooler parts of the day- and make sure both you and your dog have plenty of water to drink. Heatstroke is no joke, folks, and dogs can overheat quickly while running.

Make it a real challenge

Sure, fetch is plenty enough for a physical challenge- but why not make it even more interesting by turning it into a mental one as well?

Our tip: Sneak in some obedience training by having your dog sit, stay, or lie down before throwing the ball or other item. It’s not just a more multifaceted experience- it’s also a great way to reinforce training while having fun!

That’s it. You’re all set for the most epic game of fetch in history. Well, in your dog’s history, at least.

But if you care enough about your dog to take fetch to the max, we know you care enough to take their health to the max too. And the best way to do that is Animalia’s dog insurance. Our coverage will take care of your dog from puppyhood to old age, and from head to tail. Now that’s coverage that sticks around!

Roi Kadosh

Adores dogs and writing, not necessarily in that order. Left his heart in New York City, but lives far, far away from it.

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