We love our pets as if they are one of the family. We’d do just about anything for them. So as modern pet owners, we also have to realize it’s not all about us. We should never try to be our pet’s whole world. Just like we want our children to be independent, we must allow our pets to live a similar life.
Now, of course, our dogs and cats can’t hunt for themselves since they’ve domesticated and in our neighborhoods, there’s not much natural prey anyway. So feeding them, keeping them healthy and supplying fresh water every day is where you can almost draw the line. Aside from those essentials, our pets should be able to live their own lives without being at our every beck and call. So here’s how more freedom for your dog or cat, will strengthen your relationship.
Off the leash
It’s important to train dogs and even cats, to walk with a leash. This should be done from a very young age so they can see it as a normal part of their life with you. However, when they are comfortable with the leash, you shouldn’t always use it. When you’re going for a walk with your dog, surprise them by not putting a leash on him or her. Allow them to walk freely and go sniff around. Their nose will lead them to all sorts of things but you must allow them to explore.
When you are walking without the leash, maintain a steady pace so your dog knows you’re not going to stop and wait for them. If you do this, they’ll become used to the fact that they are given more freedom but they must move with you regardless of what they’re up to. This is a natural way to ‘heel’ your dog at your side. Without making a sound or saying a word, your dog will know to be at your side whenever you’re going leash-free.
Free yard access
Dogs and cats love to stare out the window. They can’t help it because the moving things attract their eye, and their hunter instincts kick in. However, they also like to stare out into the yard because they see it as their domain or territory. Giving your dog or cat, free access to the yard without the need for your help can really help strengthen your bond. But that’s what the flap door is for, you say? What if you don’t want your doors to be made structurally weaker by a dog flap? It also costs a decent bit to have your current door cut and fitted. It’s better for you, your home and your dog to have a doggy door for glass door installed instead. You can keep your current sliding doors into the back yard how they are. The security lock keeps out intruders and the seal keeps the home’s heat trapped inside.
Giving your pets more freedom when it comes to walking, will strengthen your bond together because they still feel free to enjoy their world but don’t feel a tug on their neck when you decide to go.
Leave a Reply