Dogs, cats, and other pets can get bored just like we do. When I'm bored (or procrastinating 😉) I tend to snack or start doom scrolling on social media. Keeping our minds and bodies active is important for our health, and science shows this is true for pets, too.
While some dogs can become destructive or chewers when they are bored, luckily my dogs display their boredom in other ways. Winston will start looking out the window and barks at everything that moves. Toby will start trying to pester my older dog to play (spoiler, she never wants to). I try to pay close attention to their behavior cues to know when I need to take a break from working at my desk to give them some enrichment time.
There are many ways you can add some stimulation into your pet’s world that don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Check out these easy and green pet-parent projects you can try this spring.
We installed a blue bird house in our back yard for the first time this year. We've already have 2 pairs use it!
Set up a bird feeder or bird bath
It’s no secret that cats (and some dogs!) like birdwatching. My dog Winston in particular is very attuned to watching birds fly overhead. He'll even stop walking mid-stride to watch a bird soar by. A bird feeder or bird bath is a super easy way to give your pets some mental stimulation and to give the birds some TLC. Make sure to place the feeders or baths outside the windows if your dog or cat already loves sitting in front of them. Or even place several around your backyard if your pup likes to hang out outside in the sun.
Pick eco-friendly pet toy companies
Many dog and cat toy companies are paying close attention to their carbon pawprint these days. Check out these eco-friendly pet-toy companies listed on sustainablejungle.com.
Take a walk!
Ok, your kitty may or may not be into this one, but it’s a great way to enrich your pup while de-stressing you both. Consider how else you might consume valuable resources while you de-stress like eating or a long soak in a bubble bath. Now, I’m not saying never to partake. I personally need my chocolate chip cookies, but adding in a longer walk can get you and your dog some valuable enrichment time while saving some resources on the way.
Schedule a Photo Session!
Did you know that a photo session with me is an enrichment session too? Exploring a new location, taking a walk outside in nature - all these things contribute to a giving your dog a new adventure and help stimulate their mind! Ready to plan a session with me? Just contact me here!
