When our son was born, I secretly hoped that I wouldn't have to share my running with him. I wanted to run only on my own because I was afraid of injury (running with a stroller throws your gait off) and I really thought that I could have time on my own. Six months later I broke down and bought a single jogging stroller and logged hundreds of miles on it before having to upsize to my current double jogger. My crew of running partners continues to grow - starting with our son, adding our daughter and now our dog. This article from the National Post is timely (As workout partners, dogs can play key role) - having Murphy has made me a more frequent runner. If it wasn't for her, I definitely wouldn't be lacing up while Mr. P is away. Despite being considered mature, at 5 years old Murphy still behaves much like a puppy. If she's not run at least once a day, she gets bored and naughty. She's a great running partner and very polite on the road. I also love the extra protection she provides when I'm out running on the trails (our favourite place to be together). That said, my neighbour told me when we met on the road during my morning run that Murphy's bear bell isn't loud enough and that I need to buy a whistle. Oh, and if I was ever attacked I'd never be able to out run the bear. Do you run with your dog? How does your dog contribute to family fitness?
Originally published on Today's Parent, October 5, 2011
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