Over the past few months, many people are adopting a dog, and some are becoming first time pet parents. There are many benefits to having a dog in your life. A dog’s love is unconditional—however, this time of isolation can also bring stress. We need to remember our stress levels can influence our dog’s behavior as well.
Pet Parent Question: Now that we are home and have more time with our dogs, what things can we do to enjoy our newfound time together?
A pet parent is everything to a dog, and making quality time for dog and pet parent is the goal. Now we have time and good weather to walk our dogs. Spend time training your dog to sit, stay, come and lay down at your request. Give your dog mental and physical challenges. Put tennis balls on top of a treat in a muffin tin and help your dog figure out how to get at the treat. And, of course, lots of snuggle time. Spending time together helps build your bond and allows you to get to know more about each other. Your dog can help you release your stress when you engage your dog in some of these activities.
Donna Chicone is an award-winning author, TEDx speaker and advocate for dogs. She lives in Woodbury. You might find her engaged in pet-assisted therapy work.
