AS you are reading this I will either be nervously preparing my kit or swimming, running or biking around the Weymouth Ironman course.

Huge apologies to those of you that are having their lives interrupted by road closures but I am, indeed, one of those crazy people that takes part in the event. You never know – if you look closely at the runners you might see me (in the crowd of over two thousand) though the forecast is not great so you may stay inside with a cup of tea instead.

All this activity may seem like madness but there is no doubt in my mind that it is good for you – and the same goes for your pets.

I have said it before and I will say it again, the healthiest older dogs that we see are those that have kept slim and active throughout their lives. I have had to say goodbye to a few much loved patients recently but they had all made very old age and had been fit and active nearly till the end. The biggest factor in favour of these active dogs is the fact that they remain slim, this in turn helps their joints, heart and breathing.

I am not saying that every dog should become a marathon runner but regular exercise is good for the body and for the mind. Many dogs that show destructive behaviour at home (chewing up things in the house) will show a marked improvement in behaviour if they get more exercise.

So, even if the Ironman does not inspire you to set athletic goals, get inspired to give your dog more exercise.