During National Wellness Month, we are encouraged to focus on self-care by reducing stress levels and concentrating on emotional health. Since emotional wellness is important to quality of life and physical health for both us and our animal companions, why not spend the month of August going on a wellness journey together with your furry best friend? Here are some ideas to get your animal companion started on the road to optimal emotional wellness.
Make Sure Your Dog Gets Plenty of Exercise
Exercise is vital to the health of both the body and the mind. Keep your dog fit and fight off the boredom that can induce bad behavior by exercising every day. Going for a walk or run will keep both of you in great physical and mental shape. If your dog enjoys water, go for a swim together. Play games like fetch that will work both body and mind for your dog. You can even play tennis or do yoga together.
Provide Your Pup with Mental Stimulation
Bored dogs are dogs who can get into trouble. Strengthen your bond with your animal companion while stimulating her brain by playing games. Show her a fun toy, then hide it and encourage her to find it in a dog-friendly version of hide and seek. Purchase or make a treat puzzle that will reward her every time she solves it and finds the tasty snack.
Teach Your Dog New Tricks
Working on specific behavior skills will tire out your pup both mentally and physically. Learning the paw-shake or rolling over stimulates the dog and gives him more ways to share a bonding relationship with you. Some dogs thrive on agility which is a wonderful way to connect and fulfill a dog’s drive for purpose and exercise. If your animal has behavior issues, a good trainer can help your animal overcome lots of bad habits, and animal behaviorists can teach your dog that anxiety doesn’t have to lead to aggression. Both types of professionals know just how to guide you and your dog to positive outcomes and a strong emotional bond.
Consult your Veterinarian if Something Seems Off
If you are concerned about your dog’s behavior, make an appointment to visit your veterinarian. It could be that newly formed anxiety, lethargy, or aggression is a symptom of a physical problem and can be resolved with medical intervention.
Consider Supplements
Sometimes, your dog may need a little extra boost to help her feel and act her best. If your dog seems stressed out, try Earth Animal’s Calmness Organic Herbal Remedy or Emotional Balance Organic Herbal Remedy to promote a calming effect and help minimize behavior problems. These are all-natural, safe, and effective supplements that help your dog be her best.
Create a Safe Space in your Home
Designate a spot in your home where your dog can feel especially safe so that she has a retreat when she needs to take a break from too much stimulation. Make the space comfortable and welcoming with a soft bed and a favorite cuddly toy and teach her that this is the spot to go to when she needs some alone time.
Emotional wellness requires both physical and mental health. These suggestions can form the basis for long-term physical health and a strong relationship between you and your dog.
- Keep active and playful with your dog
- Work on new skills
- Explore agility with your pup
- Consult a behavioral professional if needed
- Add high-quality, all-natural supplements to her dietary regimen
- Maintain regular check-ups to rule out physical problems
- Ensure that your dog has a comfortable and safe space in your home
