Most dog owners would probably agree that during these dank, dark and dreary days of January it’s hard to be motivated to walk your four-legged friend. Some canines would agree with that too, including mine who’s most definitely a fair-weather walker! However, once up and about, the benefits to you both can be huge.

“But as responsible dog owners, walking the dog is a daily job,” I hear you say. And yes, that’s true. But after the fuzzy warmth of the festive season, and with the flatness that January brings, I don’t think even the most enthusiastic dog walker really loves it at this time of year.

Taking some time out of a busy day, even just a quick five minutes round the block, filling your lungs with fresh air and totting up some steps on your Fitbit is a health benefit in itself. I’m not about to get all excited about fitness and health because (and those who know me will know this), I was certainly born to be a spectator! What my sport of choice is, though, is being a passionate believer that anything, used in the right way, can help with mental health and wellbeing.

Dogs (other pets are available too) are excellent companions. Human companions generally offer us love and an ear to listen. Furry companions are no different. It’s well known that this companionship can help to ease anxiety and boost self-confidence. Add a walk into the mix and the results multiply with the additional benefits associated with movement. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with the chaos that is practice management, among other things, it’s very easy to find yourself in a place where the enjoyment of life disappears. Going out for a walk, putting one foot in front of the other and enjoying the fresh air is such a mood boost. For those who may be socially isolated, a walk with your dog can be an opportunity to share a few words with someone. Dog walkers often acknowledge each other especially if your dog is particularly sociable or super cute. For less abled people, that furry little sidekick can be a simple step forward in breaking down barriers for exactly the same reasons.

When we have these types of social interactions, our bodies naturally release oxytocin – the ‘love’ or ‘cuddle’ hormone. Oxytocin works in conjunction with another brain hormone called vasopressin. This hormone helps modulate our response to stress among other things. Such a heady hormone cocktail can be likened to partaking in a cosmopolitan or espresso martini – a few moments of deliciousness that leave you with a glow inside.

I did say I wasn’t going to focus too much on the fitness aspects of walking with your dog. Personally, I do like to think of a dog walk as a workout. Throwing balls works on the bingo-wing biceps, bending to pick up bottom deposits shapes the waist, and when your dog decides they don’t want to walk in the rain anymore and sprint home – there’s your cardio.

I never thought I’d have a dog in my life (inherent fear caused by Great-Gran’s evil poodle back in the 70s), but my little boy has brought so much joy and love into my and my family’s life. Not to mention that daily cardio workout.

Please remember (and this applies to all pets), a dog is for life.

(The views expressed are my own and not representative of any organisation in which I work.)