walking your dog

Do you sometimes feel that taking your dog out for a walk is more of a chore than an enjoyment? In all honesty, I can say for me, sometimes it does feel that way. Waking up early, piling on layers of warm clothes and boots and having to go out is not my idea of a good time, especially if it’s snowing or raining. The funny thing is once I get out there and start walking with my girl, I almost immediately have an “attitude adjustment” and start to get a little pep in my step and enjoy my time outside with her. I find myself talking to her about what the day is going to hold, telling her how cute she is, stopping with her to look at a plant or flower, and just enjoying nature. Of course, after a long day at work, the last thing I want to do is come home and go out for another walk, but I have gotten to the point now where I look forward to that time, as well. When I head out with my girl, I talk to her and tell her about how my day was and it/she just seems to make all the stress of the day go away. It’s like a walking therapy session in a no judgement zone! She’s not judging me about anything I’m telling her, or how fast or slow I’m walking. She’s just happy we’re together, and so am I.

Not only is walking your dog a stress-reducer and time to commune with nature, but it also keeps both you and your dog healthy. It’s a great way for them to burn off some energy, and help with joint health and weight issues, especially if they just lie around all day while you’re at work. I know my girl comes running to the front door when I get home and can’t wait to get out there and go, go, go! Our time out walking is exercise for her and for me too, and what’s great is it doesn’t even really feel like I’m exercising. We usually walk for 30 minutes every morning and about 45 minutes every afternoon, which means that I’m getting an average of over an hour of exercise every day and she is too, which is a good thing as she’s a big fan of treats, and I haven’t mastered the art of saying “no” to her!

Another benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is socialization for both them and you! When you meet up with other dog people, there is almost always some sort of conversation that happens while your furry friends check each other out. It gives you an opportunity to make new friends and possibly even future playdates for your dogs. My dog is really friendly and will pretty much try to love on everybody she meets. There are a couple people in the senior community near my apartment who are always sitting outside when Cassidy and I are out, and she runs right up to them. They get such a kick out of it and love spending time with her, while she’s loving on them. It’s good for her and them!

Perhaps the greatest benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is the one-on-one time you have together. My dog is learning to trust me more when I say “it’s OK, I got you” if she sees a bigger dog, or a loud car or truck goes by and spooks her. I love when we’re walking and she’s ahead of me and stops and looks at me to make sure I’m there and then we continue on. It’s almost like she’s saying, “Come on, mom, let’s do this together.” Taking your dog for walks every day offers the opportunity for both of you to continue to bond, which helps create a strong and happy relationship. Your dog is also likely to be more well-behaved and listen to you better when you have a good, strong bond. It’s fun to watch her explore new things that she sees or smells, and sometimes I have to chuckle at her curiosity, especially when she’s looking at something and then looks up at me almost as if to say, “What’s this?” She’s made me try to look at the world with the same curiosity as she has, and it has made me a think about even the simplest things a little differently. Who knew walking your dog could do so much?

If you’re looking for a walking buddy, there are a lot of them waiting for you, and a new home, at Yavapai Humane Society! Visit our website at yavapaihumane.org to see all their pictures and then make an appointment at 928-445-2666 to come meet your new best friend. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.