Fitness Clubs for Dogs on the Rise

Fitness Clubs for dogs are on the rise around the world especially in Japan. One particular Aqua Club for Dogs located in Tokyo offers treatments specially designed for disabled, elderly and overweight dogs.

Each treatment lasts about one hour and consists of a variety of activities. In most cases the dogs will begin with a workout on an underwater treadmill. Besides a good way of exercise it seems to give dogs with lowered mobility caused by rheumatism more mobility. In turn this allows them to get some much needed exercise. Another main feature of the treatments given at this Tokyo Aqua Clubs for Dogs is a few laps of the special dog pool. At the end of each season dogs are treated to a hot spa soak followed by a bath and blow dry.

BBC was able to speak with a regular visitor to the spa Manta and his owner. Manta is a sufferer of rheumatism. According to his owner the workouts on the treadmill have given Manta some much need muscle tone on his hind legs making it easier for him to get around. Manto also seems to enjoy his treatments, which allow him the freedom of better mobility.

When the BBC spoke with dog gym owner Koshoku Matsuyama they discovered his reasons for opening and running this new was to get dogs in shape. Mr. Matsuyama set up the dog gym to benefit he needs of the modern dog. He believes that the lifestyles of dogs are changing in a similar way to the lifestyle of humans. Dogs are becoming less active and as a result a number of lifestyle health problems such as becoming over weight occur. These modern changes to the lifestyle of dogs has created an increased demand for dog gyms according to Mr. Matsuyama.