🐰 Vet-Approved DIY Agility Jumps for Small Pets: Enriching Activities for 2025

Author: Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

🐹 Keeping our small pets active and engaged is crucial for their overall well-being. In 2025, let's explore how to create vet-approved DIY agility jumps that are both fun and safe for our furry companions. 🛠️🐰

📌 Why Agility Jumps?

Agility jumps are not just for dogs! Small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets benefit immensely from physical activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. 🐇🐹

• Physical Health: Regular movement helps prevent obesity and related health issues. 🏃‍♂️
• Mental Stimulation: Challenges keep their minds sharp and reduce boredom. 🧠
• Bonding: Interactive play strengthens the bond between pet and owner. 🤝

🛠️ Materials Needed

Creating agility jumps is simple and cost-effective. Here's what you'll need:

• 8 toilet paper tubes or 4 paper towel rolls cut in half 🧻
• Enriched Life Apple Stick Bundle or similar safe chew sticks 🌿
• Scissors ✂️
• Your pet’s favorite hay (e.g., Timothy or Orchard) 🌾

🔧 Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Tubes

Using scissors, carefully puncture two holes on opposite sides of a toilet paper tube. Repeat this process on another tube, ensuring the holes align at the same height. 🛠️

2. Insert the Stick

Take an apple stick and insert it through the holes of both tubes, creating a horizontal bar. This forms your first agility jump. 🌟

3. Create Multiple Jumps

Repeat the above steps to make additional jumps at varying heights. This provides different levels of challenge for your pet. 🐾

4. Add a Cross Jump

For a more advanced obstacle, create a cross jump by inserting two sticks diagonally across the tubes, forming an 'X' shape. This encourages your pet to navigate different angles. ❌

5. Decorate with Hay

Place a small amount of hay on top of each tube. This not only adds flair but also entices your pet to interact with the jumps. 🎀

🎯 Training Tips

• Start Low: Begin with the lowest jump to build confidence. 📉
• Use Treats: Encourage your pet with their favorite treats to guide them over the jumps. 🍬
• Be Patient: Allow your pet to explore at their own pace. Never force them. 🕊️
• Short Sessions: Keep training sessions brief to maintain interest. ⏱️

⚠️ Safety Considerations

Always prioritize your pet's safety:

• Ensure all materials are non-toxic and safe for chewing. 🧪
• Supervise your pet during play to prevent accidents. 👀
• Regularly inspect the jumps for wear and tear. 🛠️

📱 Enhance the Experience

For more enrichment ideas and personalized advice:

• Visit AskAVet.com for expert guidance. 🌐
• Download the Ask A Vet app for on-the-go support. 📲
• Explore Woopf and Purrz for training tools and enrichment resources. 🐾

🎉 Conclusion

Creating DIY agility jumps is a rewarding way to keep your small pet active and engaged. With simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can provide endless fun and stimulation for your furry friend. Let's make 2025 the year of enriched pet lives! 🐰🎊

For more tips and resources, don't forget to check out AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app today! 🐾