Vet-Approved Benefits of Fetch: How Play Supports Your Dog’s Health & Happiness

At Petmate, we believe that play isn’t just fun, it’s foundational. Whether it’s a spontaneous backyard sprint or a structured game of fetch, movement is one of the most powerful ways to nurture the bond between pets and their people. Chuckit! toys are designed with this in mind: to make fetch happen in ways that support physical health, emotional connection, and lifelong well-being (tips for selecting the best toy for your pet can be found here).

To explore the deeper benefits of movement and play, we spoke with Dr. James Bascharon, DVM, founder and CEO of Vetnique, the team behind mobility-supporting supplements like YuMOVE. In this Q&A, Dr. Bascharon shares insights on how fetch can be tailored to every life stage, from puppies to seniors, and why regular activity is essential for both physical and emotional health.

General Benefits of Movement, Bonding, and Play

Q: What are the various roles and benefits of movement in our pets’ lives?

A: Movement is essential for dogs at every stage of life. Physically, it helps them to maintain a healthy weight, supports joint and muscle health, and keeps their cardiovascular system strong. Mentally, movement provides stimulation and an outlet for exercising their natural instincts, which can reduce boredom-related behaviors. Movement can also strengthen the human-animal bond by creating shared moments of joy and trust through activity.

Q: Why do you think fetch is such a powerful way for pet owners to bond with their dogs, regardless of age?

A: Fetch taps into a dog’s natural instincts of chasing, retrieving, and working alongside their human companions. It’s a game that allows dogs to be both physically active and mentally engaged while reinforcing communication and teamwork. For pet parents, it’s an easy, enjoyable way to connect with their dog in a positive and rewarding way.

Q: What are the emotional and behavioral benefits of regular play, like fetch, for dogs and their humans?

A: Play helps release endorphins for both dogs and humans. For dogs, it can reduce stress, curb anxiety, and provide a healthy outlet for energy. Regular play also reduces unwanted behaviors, like chewing or excessive barking, because dogs feel mentally and physically satisfied.

Q: How can fetch be adapted to suit different dog personalities and energy levels?

A: Every dog is different. High-energy breeds may thrive with long-distance throws or games of fetch combined with agility. More laid-back dogs may prefer short tosses or softer toys. Some dogs love water, so fetch in shallow water can be a great fit, while others might enjoy a slower-paced indoor version with plush or lightweight toys. The key is tailoring the activity so that it feels fun and safe for your dog.

Q: What supplements do you recommend for pets even when they’re younger or midlife to help sustain long-term movement across their lives?

A: Starting early with joint health support can make a big difference later in life. Supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and green-lipped mussel—like those found in Vetnique’s mobility products—help maintain healthy cartilage, reduce inflammation, and support long-term joint function. I always tell pet parents: Prevention is easier than treatment, so it’s smart to support mobility before problems arise.

Fetch for Puppies & Young Dogs

Q: How does fetch benefit puppies and young dogs?

A: Fetch helps puppies with their coordination, builds endurance, and teaches them boundaries and obedience in a fun way. It’s also a safe way to burn off that endless puppy energy!

Q: Why is fetch so powerful for bonding at this stage?

A: Fetch combines training with play. Puppies learn commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “drop it” while also having fun. The game builds trust between puppy and parent, which is critical in these early stages of training and bonding.

Q: What supplements do you recommend for younger dogs?

A: For puppies and young adults, I recommend daily probiotics for gut health, omega fatty acids for skin and coat support, and joint support supplements like YuMOVE to set the foundation for mobility, giving them the best building blocks for a healthy, active life.

Fetch for Adult Dogs

Q: How does fetch contribute to maintaining a healthy weight and mental stimulation for adult dogs?

A: Fetch is an ideal way to keep adult dogs fit. It can be a calorie-burning activity that supports muscle tone, heart health, and weight management. At the same time, it’s mentally stimulating, and dogs must focus on tracking, retrieving, and responding to commands, which keeps their minds sharp.

Q: What role does fetch play in reinforcing obedience and strengthening the human-animal bond?

A: Fetch requires communication and constant reinforcement that builds discipline and consistency while also building trust. Dogs learn that listening to their owner leads to positive outcomes, strengthening the bond over time.

Q: How can fetch be incorporated into daily walks or outdoor routines?

A: It can be as simple as carrying a ball on your walk. Stopping midway for a short game adds variety, burns extra energy, and keeps things exciting. For high-energy breeds, alternating between walking and short fetch sessions can transform a routine stroll into a more satisfying workout.

Fetch for Senior Dogs

Q: What are some gentle ways to modify fetch for older dogs with joint or mobility issues?

A: For senior dogs, we like to go for low impact. Instead of long throws, try rolling a ball across a soft surface indoors, or tossing a plush toy a short distance. Fetch in shallow, calm water can also be gentle on joints while still allowing movement.

Q: How can fetch remain part of a senior dog’s routine?

A: Short, frequent sessions are better than long, intense ones for aging dogs. Even a few minutes of gentle play each day can keep seniors mentally engaged and physically active without overexertion.

Q: What supplements do you recommend for sustaining mobility in aging pups?

A: Supplements that are rich in omega-3s, glucosamine, chondroitin, and antioxidants are excellent for older dogs. Vetnique’s YuMOVE Advanced Vet Strength hip and joint health chews are designed specifically with these needs in mind to help reduce inflammation, support cartilage, and keep seniors moving comfortably.

Q: What toys or surfaces are best for seniors?

A: Soft, lightweight toys are easier on the mouth and joints. Indoor carpeted areas or grassy lawns provide traction and cushioning, reducing the risk of slips or strain.

Health & Wellness

Q: How does regular fetch support joint health and overall mobility in dogs?

A: Regular fetch helps keep joints lubricated, strengthens muscles that support those joints, and helps maintain a healthy weight—all of which are critical for mobility. Like people, we see that dogs who move regularly often age more gracefully.

Q: What signs should pet owners look for to know when to pause or modify fetch play?

A: Watch for hesitations to chase, stiffness after play, a change in their gait, or slow, strained movements. If a dog seems less enthusiastic, it may mean the session was too long or the surfaces were too hard. It’s always better to shorten play than push too far.

Q: Can fetch be part of a rehabilitation or wellness plan for dogs recovering from injury or surgery?

A: If guided by a veterinarian, yes, it can help. Gentle, controlled versions of fetch can help to rebuild muscle memory, restore range of motion, and provide mental engagement during recovery. For some dogs, rolling a toy a few feet is just enough to support rehabilitation in a positive, rewarding way.

Go Move!

Fetch isn’t just play—it’s a pathway to better health, deeper connection, and lifelong well-being. As Dr. Bascharon shares, movement supports everything from joint health to emotional balance. With the right toys and proactive care, like Vetnique’s YuMOVE supplements, fetch can be a meaningful part of your dog’s routine at every age.

For more tips and toy recommendations, explore the resources of Petmate Academy for fresh ways to make fetch happen.


 

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