Canicross, The New Sport To Do Together With Your Dog
Exercising with your dog has many benefits, both for you and for your best friend. Many dog owners go for a run or walk with their pet, which has led to a recent competition called Canicross. In today’s article we will talk about this discipline and we will see together the story of a special dog called Leila, a true protagonist of these races.
What is Canicross?
The world is full of people who love to exercise in the company of their pet. It is undoubtedly an enjoyable activity for both of you. Combining the passion for racing with love for dogs, Canicross was born, a new discipline now so popular in Europe that it has also spread throughout the rest of the world.
The discipline has its origins in the snow competitions of sled dogs, mainly Husky, particularly popular in countries where the winter is very long. In fact, in Europe there are more and more competitions of this type on the ski slopes.
Canicross combines elements of athletics, cross-country running and mountain running (which requires owners to tie their dog with a harness and bungee cord). Although it may seem a cruel practice for animals, the truth is quite another: dogs have a lot of fun doing this activity.
Fans of this new sport to do in the company of their favorite claim that their animals are true lovers of running. They have a lot of fun during training. A fundamental element to be able to practice Canicross is a good level of understanding between dog and owner, as well as an excellent physical state of both.
How to practice Canicross?
First you will need to equip the animal with a harness to then attach to the owner’s belt. It is good that the owner does not demand too much from his dog, but rather that he adapts to the rhythm set by him. Man is not allowed to run in front of the animal.
Although there are no restrictions regarding the breed, it is good that the animal is over one year of age and does not suffer from any disease or impediment. To participate, a certificate from the veterinarian must be given stating that the dog can perform physical activity and proving that it has carried out all the vaccines and annual checks.
Canicross races cannot take place if temperatures are above 20 ° C. In extreme heat conditions, in fact, exercise can be fatal for dogs. In Europe there is a federation that establishes the rules of the competition.
The story of Leila, the dog who makes Canicross
Now that you know a few more details about this new sport that is perfect for strengthening the dog-human relationship, we want to tell you the story of a special dog called Leila, who will teach us a great lesson today.
This beautiful mixed breed dog (descended from a French Poodle, according to her owner), is a true champion. He has already participated in three races, winning them all. Now he is preparing for a fourth, and his goal is to break his own record. The little girl managed to beat even other dogs of larger size and longer legs – the so-called competition favorites.
Hugo Gómez is Leila’s companion in this adventure. The professional runner, who can boast of having also raced on Mont Blanc, France, has passed on his love for the sport to his animal since he was a puppy.
In the Colombian city of Cali, where they live, Leila Maria is a real star. The owner claimed to have given her these two names because of her passion for Star Wars (clearly) and because she is mestizo. Ever since she was adopted, the little dog has been running around the house frantically.
Seeing her so restless, Hugo began to take her to the park every day to make her run and release all her energy. This practice quickly turned into a habit, and now a profession. Leila participated in her first race when she was just 7 months old, even reaching fifth place.
There is no doubt that this is a four-legged sportswoman who can teach a great lesson to all of us: with determination and some effort, we can achieve everything we propose.
Source: 4patas.com.co
