Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Day 1331

Dot got quite a workout today. Now that she has become more comfortable with the underwater treadmill, we started her on a program of interval training. This is great exercise for an older dog. Just like interval training for humans, the treadmill speed can be controlled to provide bursts of intense activity, followed by slower cool down periods. Dot always loved to run when she was younger, and the underwater treadmill allows her to work the same muscles without the risk of injury. I am very pleased with this low impact exercise, especially since Dot seems to enjoy it. The Heal Veterinary Hospital where we go every Wednesday specializes in physical therapy and rehabilitation. When Dot gets stronger, we may try other forms of physical therapy as well. They even have balance and exercise balls designed specifically for dogs to strengthen core muscles and improve coordination.

When I go to the gym, I usually fumble around and learn what the various machines are all about by trial and error. Dot has a whole team working with her. Watching her in the tank reminds me of that Aflac Duck commercial on TV. The nurses encourage her, saying "Come on Dot, you can do it" while she high steps through the water. All we need now is the theme music from Rocky as the soundtrack for her athletic adventure.

The weather certainly didn't get any cooler today. Somebody at training class this evening said it was the hottest day of the year so far. No worries though. Janet let me use her car to take Dot to her therapy session. This made a big difference, since a new Land Rover is much more comfortable and reliable in hot weather than an eighteen year old Land Rover. Even though it was still 106 outside, we were cool and comfortable today.

Considering how much time I spent carting Dot around town, I still managed to get quite a bit done today. I finished two articles and got started on a third. I completed some minor website updates as well. I still don't know whether I will be going to Las Vegas for the WWD Magic show later this month. Hopefully, this decision won't take two years like the website project that came back to life yesterday.

Now that Dot's workout is complete for the week, I'm hoping to get back to the gym myself tomorrow. I need to burn off enough calories so I can try out a brand new breakfast restaurant I discovered recently. It's supposed to be one of the best in Texas, and it's nearby as well. I can hardly wait.

Lou is today's Dalmatian of the Day
Watch of the Day