INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Most kinds of pedometer will automatically be able to detect your steps without any input from you. However, to be able to calculate the total distance you've walked, some require you to set the average length of your stride. If you're unsure of whether your pedometer requires this information, consult its operating manual. To find your average step length, grab a tape measure, start walking in a straight line, stop suddenly at a random step (like, for instance, step number seven), and measure the distance between the heels of your feet. No two models of pedometers are exactly alike, so the way you input your average step length for one may not be the same as for others. Some common pedometers are set like this: Press the "Mode" button until you see a reading for your miles traveled. Press "Set." You will see a default step length setting usually about 30 in (75 cm). Adjust your step length with the appropriate buttons on the pedometer. Pedometers count your steps by recording the number of times they feel a "shake" or "bump" that occur throughout the day. Usually, these happen with each step you take, so the number you see on your pedometer is usually a good (sometimes even exact) measure of how many steps you've taken. Because pedometers work this way, for a pedometer to be able to count your steps, it has to be attached to your clothes or body. The most common types of pedometers are worn by clipping them to the edge of a pocket, the waistband of a pair of pants, or a belt so that they rest on the hips. These usually work best if they're aligned with the center of the thigh. If your pedometer comes with a safety band, try fastening it to a belt loop to prevent the pedometer from falling off. Note that not all pedometers are worn at the waist. Some, for instance, are worn around the wrist. In this case, the pedometer is usually secured exactly like a wristwatch. Some high-end devices called accelerometers that function similarly to pedometers are even worn on the foot or ankle. Once you've attached your pedometer securely and ensured that it's on, you can usually begin moving and it will count your steps automatically. Every time the pedometer shakes from the up-and-down motion of an average stride, it registers another step. No input is needed on your part you can simply forget about your pedometer until the end of the day! You're not limited just to walking when you wear your pedometer. You can also jog, run, or sprint and the pedometer should record your steps during these activities as well. When you're done walking for the day (for instance, right before you go to bed), remove your pedometer and check the number of steps you've made. If you're aiming to increase your fitness, record number and take pride in the day's accomplishment. Over time, you can increase your fitness by gradually raising the number of steps you take per day. Over the next few days, get into the routine of putting your pedometer on once you start moving and taking it off before you get into bed. Record or make note of each day's results. These simple actions are all you need to do to start a record of your daily step counts! Once they become a habit, you should barely even notice your pedometer while you wear it.

SUMMARY: If necessary, set the length of your steps. Fasten the pedometer on. Start moving! Check the pedometer at the end of the day. Repeat every day.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Rest is the first step to treating a sprain. To ensure your dog gets enough rest, you will need to restrict your dog's activity. You should keep the dog inside or in a small area where it is unable to run or play. The less active the dog is, the better. As needed, you can take your dog outside on a short leash. Keep the walk short and slow. Return the dog to a confined area as soon as possible. Restrict the dog's activity for a full 48 hours to give the injury enough time to heal. To reduce swelling, help with pain, and aid in the healing process, apply an ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect the dog's skin from any excessive cold. Repeated as needed, waiting at least two hours between applications. This will help prevent irritating the skin and reducing circulation, which can delay healing. You can use a bag of frozen vegetables, such as peas, for an ice pack that you can mold around the ankle. This will allow you to evenly and effectively apply the ice to all of the damaged tissue. If your dog has an older, chronic, or recurrent injury it is not recommended to apply an ice pack. At this stage of an injury it is best to apply moist heat. Heat will improve circulation and help to loosen tightness in the muscles while having a soothing effect. To apply heat, use a damp towel warmed in the dryer or microwave. Be sure the towel isn't hot enough to burn the skin. Apply heat for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, remove it for at least an hour before applying again. Don't use a heat treatment immediately after exercise. During the 48 hour rest period you should watch closely for signs that the injury is improving or worsening. With rest and treatment, most ankle sprains will be back to normal fairly quickly. If the leg is not better after 48 hours or if it is getting worse, consult with your veterinarian. If you don't see improvement, it's possible that your dog may just need more rest, along with some veterinarian-prescribed medication. Sometimes, there can also be an injury in another area that is delaying recovery. If there is a more serious injury, such as a dislocation or small fracture, your vet can do a full examination and X-rays if needed.

SUMMARY:
Make your dog rest. Apply an ice pack. Apply heat. Watch for signs of improvement or worsening.