Wellness Tips for Humans and Pets in Concord, NH
White Park in Concord, NH is a popular place for dog walking.
Animals struggle with health issues just like humans. Animals experience chronic health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and more. According to “Frontiers in Veterinary Science,” approximately twenty percent of dogs over the age of 1 year have osteoarthritis in the United States. Wow, that’s a lot of dogs! The rates of people with diabetes in the United States are growing. The National Institute of Health reports “over 38 million Americans had Diabetes” and “over 8 million adults were undiagnosed” in 2021, and unfortunately the rates could continue to climb. The good news is that people and pets can prevent or improve their quality of life with these conditions by making lifestyle changes.
It doesn’t need to be hard to practice wellness at home for humans and for our beloved pets. Humans love spoiling their companions with toys, treats, and accessories. Why not shower them with wellness? If you live in and around Concord, NH, you’ll love these tips for practicing wellness with all members of your household… even the furry ones!
1. Share fresh produce! People can share some low-calorie nutrient-packed foods! Avoid adding spices to the foods that you give your pets due to some may be harmful to your animals or hard for them to digest. There are some fruits and veggies that you can share with some of your pets! Some recommended foods are carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. These foods are high in antioxidants that help with inflammation. Eating fresh produce can help people and animals get the antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that we need for our health. Swap the chips for some of these healthy treats together! Buying fruits and vegetables from the Concord Food Coop and attending the Concord Farmers Market are great places to purchase local fresh produce and support our small businesses within our community.
2. Movement. Humans and pets need movement. Cats enjoy playing with toys. Dogs enjoy time outdoors with you. Grab a ball and play fetch with them outside. Dog-friendly nature trails are a great way to get exercise while enjoying nature. Fortunately, New Hampshire does not have a shortage of trails! The Concord - Lake Sunapee Rail Trail is a great option! For humans and pets with disabilities, water aerobics or exercises are a great way to move your body that’s easy on your joints. Check with your local fitness centers and veterinarians for aquatic or water therapy options. Organizations such as Canine Strong offer many therapies that can enhance the wellness and quality of life for your pets. Talk with your health care providers and/or veterinarian about how you may also be able to modify and practice exercises at home.
3. Be present. Animals are great for reminding us to live in the present moment. They don’t worry about the future. Pets are great for nudging us for some quality petting time and snuggles. Pay attention to those gentle paw taps and puppy eyes. Take some time to enjoy their companionship. Take a break from your busy day and be present with your pets. It’s a calming way to relieve stress for people and animals.
4. Hydrate. Make sure to have access to water throughout your day. Our bodies are made up of water and need water to function. Staying hydrated is a great way to keep the energy level stable throughout the day. Make sure to leave water available for your pets to drink. Automatic refillable water bowls are convenient options for the home. If you’re traveling or walking with your pets, make sure to pack some water and a bowl with you.
5. CBD oil. CBD oil or cannabidiol comes from the hemp plant. This oil from the plant does not “get you high” because it does not contain the high levels of THC found in marijuana. This nutraceutical is a substance that works to achieve balance within your body. According to Harvard Health, more research is needed to determine its effects on the human body, but some research shows that cannabidiol may have positive effects for those dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, seizures and more. This product is also pet-friendly! You and your pets can reap the nourishing effects of this natural oil! Learn more about CBD oil from Clearly Balanced Days! Clearly Balanced Days is a small business right in our backyard in Belmont, NH.
We can make small changes to our routines that can make a huge difference in how we feel. Let’s take it one step and paw at a time towards achieving wellness together.
Learn more:
Read a touching story about how CBD oil helped a rescue dog and her owner!Read a story of how a local dog rescue, Motley Mutts, is using CBD oil to rehabilitate their dogs and get them ready for their furever homes.
This guest blog was provided by Clearly Balanced Days. It was written by Raechel Gilbert-Pierce of Rael Thymes Health Writing and Poetry LLC.
Visit Concord NH is an initiative of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. This website and accompanying social media profiles showcase the best of NH’s Capital Region to travelers, new residents and long-time fans of Concord. Learn more about the Chamber at concordnhchamber.com.
*Disclaimer: Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed. Keep out of reach of children. Consult your healthcare provider before taking CBD oil if you are pregnant or nursing or have any other medical conditions. The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your veterinarian before administering CBD oil for your pet, especially if your pet has existing medical conditions and taking other supplements or medications. Discontinue use of CBD oil if you observe any change in condition of your pet and suspect any adverse reactions. Immediately report any potential adverse reactions with your pet and your findings to your veterinarian.
