The Furry Fitness Guru
I’ve always been into health and fitness, but it wasn’t until I did a 13-mile mud run event that I gained a deeper understanding of the benefits of specific exercise training and healthy eating. I felt so much better physically and mentally afterwards, and I wanted to keep improving. That meant more time at the gym and less time with my dogs, Oscar and Leah.
As a lifelong dog lover, that just didn’t sit right with me. I’ve had dogs since I was a little kid and I’ve always known I wanted to own my own dog business when I grew up. After high school, I went to school to become a professional dog groomer, and I groomed full-time for about 10 years before deciding to combine my passions for dogs and fitness.
Founding Fitness with Fido
In July 2015, I launched Fitness with Fido, a dog fitness and training business. My why is simple – I love dogs, and I want people to be healthier because that means they’re doing more with their furry friends. We should all live healthier lives because dogs just aren’t with us long enough.
My co-founder, Oscar, was a 6-month-old shy pup when he came into my life. He was glued to my side from the moment I met him, and he had so much energy that he didn’t want me to leave the house without him. When he was 6 years old, we started Fitness with Fido together because he was passionate about sharing his energy and knowledge.
Oscar was the perfect Coach – a quiet, respectable leader with a strong presence and infectious confidence. He’ll always be remembered for his big heart, goofy personality, love of food, and ability to keep everyone in line. Most of all, he always strived to help everyone be their best selves. Oscar was my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye.
Unleashing Fitness Potential
Through Fitness with Fido, I’ve learned that dog fitness and human fitness go paw-in-paw. When we exercise and live healthier, we can do more activities with our dogs. And when our dogs are fit and happy, they’re more eager to join us on all our adventures.
That’s why I became a registered 200-hour yoga instructor, with a focus on gentle and power yoga styles. I also trained under another expert to learn the ways of Doga – yoga specifically designed to be practiced with your canine companion.
My team and I use a variety of fun, interactive workouts to get both humans and dogs moving together. From high-energy cardio to relaxing Doga sessions, we’ve got something for every fitness level. The key is finding activities that you both enjoy, and making it a regular part of your routine.
Navigating the Dog Daycare Dilemma
Of course, not every dog is cut out for group exercise classes or daycare. I’ve seen firsthand how some facilities put profits ahead of dog welfare, with overcrowded spaces, undertrained staff, and questionable training methods.
That’s why I’m always learning to stay current, and I make sure my team upholds the same high standards. We do extensive temperament testing, carefully curate play groups, and give the dogs plenty of breaks for rest and relaxation. Safety and wellbeing are always the top priorities.
Even with all our precautions, Fitness with Fido isn’t the right fit for every dog. Some pups just prefer one-on-one playtime or quieter environments. As dog owners, it’s our responsibility to really know our furry friends and what they need to thrive.
Staying Motivated, Inside and Out
Whether it’s a high-intensity workout or a gentle stroll, exercising with your dog can do wonders for both of your physical and mental health. Studies show that regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and strengthen the bond between people and their pets.
And let’s be real – who can stay in a bad mood when you’ve got a tail-wagging exercise buddy by your side? Dogs have an unparalleled ability to find joy in the simple things, which is a lesson we could all stand to learn.
So lace up those sneakers, leash up your pup, and get ready to have some serious Fitness Fun with Fido! Your dog (and your waistline) will thank you.
Ready to get started? Check out our upcoming class schedule at ihavedogs.com and sign up today. I can’t wait to meet you and your four-legged fitness partner!