Walking the Dog

My pug Rama loves to eat, that's why I make sure he gets regular exercise. Pugs are prone to obesity and can quickly gain unhealthy weights. I usually take Rama for a walk in the morning before I go to work. The community park is just a couple of blocks away from our place making it an ideal walking destination for Rama. Unlike longer-nosed dog breeds, pugs overheat more easily because of their short snouts. Thus, long walks are not advisable as it can can leave them tired and out-of-breath.

At the park, I take the leash off so Rama can run around or play fetch with me for at least 30 minutes. Kids from the nearby playground usually come over to watch Rama play. I let them pet or play with him and the pug really enjoys the attention he gets from the kids. My experience has shown that the more interaction my pet receives, the happier, healthier and more adaptable to his surroundings he is. I always bring bottled water and a portable drinking bowl so Rama could get a drink after running around to help him cool down.

Back to the house, Rama will run to his water bowl to drink some more then retire to his bed to get some rest. During weekends, he would curl up in my lap while I'm watching TV as if asking for a massage, I willingly oblige ( Rama likes to consider himself the boss sometimes). After a few strokes and kneads, i will hear the now too familiar grunting, snorting and snoring sounds that used to annoy me. Now, these noises comfort me. The grunts and snorts mean that my Rama is happily sleeping in his cot, chasing butterflies in his dreams.