Affiliations: [a] Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| [b] School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Melanie L. Sartore-Baldwin, 152 Minges Coliseum, Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 2785, USA. E-mail: sartorem@ecu.edu.
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Workplace walking interventions can lead to positive physical and psychological outcomes for employees. For optimal success, however, innovative approaches that appeal to employees are needed. OBJECTIVE:The purpose of this study was to assess the physical activity levels and experiences of university staff members who walked shelter dogs during their lunch breaks. METHOD:Participants walked with a dog and a partner for 30 minutes during their lunch break one day a week for four weeks. Accelerometer data was collected during participant walks and interviews conducted post-intervention. RESULTS:Quantitative results indicated that participants averaged 24.9±7.4 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (range 12– 37 min) during the walk. Qualitative findings suggested that the incorporation of shelter dogs into a walking intervention encouraged participants to take part in the study and continue each week. CONCLUSIONS:Both the quantitative and qualitative data from this pilot study support the notion that including shelter dogs into a university-based walking program encouraged physical activity engagement and adherence.
