This pandemic has had its wide array of struggles, from illness and death to job loss and economic misfortunes, and even mask-ne (check out my previous tips on how to prevent and treat it!). While our furry best friends are likely overjoyed for extra time with their humans while we’re stuck at home, by this point, even they are likely to feel a little bored and cooped up due to shelter-in-place requirements. On top of that, areas like Los Angeles also had to cope with extra issues like poor air quality from wildfires, and dramatic heat waves.
While our furry best friends are likely overjoyed for extra time with their humans while we’re stuck at home, by this point, even they are likely to feel a little bored and cooped up due to shelter-in-place requirements.
For a dog’s overall health, it is important they get exercise and stimulation both physically and mentally. With walks not always feeling safe and socializing with other dogs nearly impossible, it’s important to make sure that your furry best friend is entertained both in their mind, and body.
Just as humans can fall into a comfort zone of relaxing together and not doing what’s best for themselves (Netflix and chill?), it can be easy to do the same with out pets. They are so loving, it can be hard to recognize when they are feeling bored or not getting enough movement.
Hector, my Frenchie, is my baby and first love. Since he is an important priority to my family and I, I wanted to make sure that he is getting exercise and entertainment, especially when his normal routines are limited or prohibited.
If you’ve been contemplating teaching your dog new tricks, now is the perfect time! Spending even just fifteen minutes a few times per day working on some training can be helpful in dividends – giving your dog some stimulation, and helping you have a better-trained canine. Whether it’s a cute trick for the ‘gram, like a handshake or high-five, or something more functional like teaching your dog to wait for your approval to start eating (freeing you to fill their bowl in peace), tis time spent learning keeps your companion’s brain happy. Even just alternating from sit to stand and giving your pup a mental puzzle is enough to be a fun change from the norm!
Even just alternating from sit to stand and giving your pup a mental puzzle is enough to be a fun change from the norm!
Taking walks (with your masks on) is a great way to get both you and your dog some exercise. Doing so at less crowded times (like early morning, or later at night in well-lit areas) can help you encounter fewer people and keep you safe. Changing up the routes can give your baby new and interesting things to smell, so make sure you give your pup the opportunity to explore!
Their happy, easy-to-please nature can make it easy to forget that quarantine has its drawbacks for our doggies, too, but with some conscious effort, you can ensure that you keep your pup entertained too!
