Finger breaks were twice as likely in over-65s, data show, and 50 per cent more likely in women. The risk of a brain injury was also 60 per cent higher in over-65s.
“Dog walking is associated with a considerable and rising injury burden,” stated the report, published in the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal.
“Dog owners should be informed of this injury potential and advised on risk-reduction strategies.”
Dr Dana Varble, chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community, said that walking dogs is good exercise for both human and animal but does come with some hazards.
“Leads [leashes] can be tripping hazards for both people and pets. Generally for most pets, shorter leads, no more than two metres in length, are recommended,” Vable said.
“Longer leads and retractable leads can get wrapped around street signs, feet, and legs of both people and animals.”
Retractable leads have caused injuries not only to dog owners, but also to the dogs themselves, she added.
“For that reason, they are never recommended,” Varble said. “Shorter leads allow you to read your dog and react to their body language to prevent bolts and starts that can lead to injuries.”
Training is also key to lower the risk of a tumble and an injury, she said.
“I always recommend all dogs get some formal training, whether that is an obedience class or one-on-one time with an experienced, positive reinforcement trainer,” she explained.
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Walking is beneficial to the strength of the human-dog relationship as well as mental and physical health, Varble said, while warning that training for long walks and not exceeding either party’s physical limits is also important.
“Multiple short walks throughout the day can be a great alternative to a single long walk so you can learn your pets’ responses, monitor their health and behaviour and adjust your exercise plan based on how you both are doing,” she added.
“There is no worse feeling than being miles from home on a walk and then your dog starts limping!”
The Telegraph, London