DO DOGS ACTUALLY NEED TO BE TAKEN FOR WALKS?

Out for a Walk In Nature

Yes, it’s just like for humans- a dog’s overall well being includes needing to be out and about on walks; preferably in a natural surrounding; even a neighborhood park.

If you are a pet parent/guardian and you think that just putting them out in the yard or on a patio is enough, think again.

You need to take your dog for walks for many of the same reasons you need to take your self for more walks including: exercise, mental stimulation, air circulation, sunshine, and more opportunities for safe socialization.

Here’s why regular walks are essential for dogs:

* Physical Health

Daily walks are essential for maintaining a healthy body weight and helping to prevent becoming obese; which we all know is unhealthy for all living sentient creatures.

* Joints and Muscle Health:Regular physical activity like daily walks helps to maintain both joint health and healthy oxygenated muscles, bones and blood; reducing the risk of mobility and other health problems. 

* Cardiovascular Health: Walks will obviously improve cardiovascular health and be beneficial to your dog’s overall well-being. 

* Mental Health and Well-being:

* Stimulation and Socialization: Walks in a safe environment like a friendly, neighborhood park can help to provide mental stimulation allowing your dog to walk with you exploring and experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells while helping to prevent boredom and frustration.  All creatures love learning new things in a safe environment. Nothing is better to a dog than knowing he/she can be out and about with you going places and doing things both familiar and new.  They just LOVE being with us and sharing in life’s experiences.  Observing what/who we react to and why helps us both to know and understand one another better. Remember, dogs ‘read’ energy and ‘tune into’ not just the environment we are in, but to how we humans act or re-act to it. * I’ve always said that “Energy travels up and down the leash.”

Walking Your Dog In A Safe Environment

* Stress Relief: Exercise helps release stress and anxiety, promoting a calmer and happier dog and most usually a healthier, happier human pet parent as well.

*If you are going to skip walks with your dog, you do need to remember that ‘rain or shine, snow or wind’, it is necessary for you to dress appropriately and if need be to get them dressed for the weather as well, and this should be a ‘given’ but you’d be surprised, maybe even shocked about how often we get asked the questions about ‘how often’ to take the dogs out to go to the bathroom, so- take them out to do their bathroom business as often as you would need to do yours. First thing when you get up in the morning you have to relieve your bladder.  So do they.  After you wake up from a nap or something ‘startling’ you have to go to the bathroom. So do they.  After you eat and or drink alot you have to go.  So do they.  You have to go again right before you go to bed for the nite. So do they.  This is all ‘common sense’.   Yes,You can skip the adventure and exploration walks on those days of inclement weather if you wish and instead learn how to play ‘indoor’ games such as hide and seek, find me, games with a lighted /squeaky ball, and perhaps some fun, interactive puzzle games together.    If you both love to get out and about no matter what the weather, great, there’s that option too.  Please DO Consider your dog’s feelings and thoughts about this as well as your own.  Sometimes dogs are only doing things because they ‘read’ that it pleases us, and they are not into it at all, and sometimes it’s the other way around.  Learn to read one another and live lovingly and respectfully together. Have fun. Learn what it’s like to be a dog. Be a good pet parent or guardian.

DO YOU KNOW WHO YOU LIVE WITH?~ EXPLORING WOLVES: ANCESTRAL GUARDIANS AND ESSENTIAL PARTNERS IN HUMAN HISTORY AND THE EVOLUTION OF DOGS

Wolves, the majestic and enigmatic creatures that have roamed the Earth for centuries, are more than just a symbol of wilderness; they are an integral part of our history, especially in the context of our relationship with dogs. As the ancestors of our beloved companions, wolves have played a crucial role in shaping not only the evolution of dogs, but also in forming a deep bond with humanity. This article delves into the profound significance of wolves in the evolution of dogs and their enduring influence on human societies.

Ancient Ancestry: The connection between wolves and dogs transcends time and can be traced back thousands of years. Recent Genetic research has established that dogs share a common ancestor with the gray wolf, Canis lupus. This ancestral link dates back to around 15,000-40,000 years ago, perhaps even further, marking the domestication of wolves into the loyal, varied breeds of dogs we all cherish today. This transformation from wild wolves to domesticated dogs was a pivotal moment in human history, signifying the beginning of a partnership that has endured through the ages and was not just a shift in physical appearance, but a profound alteration in behavior, temperament, and social structure, marking the beginning of a partnership that has significantly and positively influenced human civilization.

Vital Role in Evolution and Domestication: Wolves' cooperation with early humans was vital for survival of both species.  Wolves were skilled hunters, demonstrating teamwork and family social structures that inspired humans to form alliances with them. This collaboration led to mutual benefits: Wolves gained a consistent food source from human hunting, while humans benefitted from the wolves' keen senses and protective instincts. Over generations, this symbiotic relationship gradually shaped the genetic traits that distinguished dogs from their wild ancestors. This mutual relationship led to the emergence of certain behavioural and genetic adaptations in wolves, gradually differentiating them from their wild counterparts and paving the way for the unique attributes found in our modern day dogs.  Over time, this co-evolution has been fundamental in the development of many diverse breeds of dogs we know today, each with its own specific traits and abilities. From Herding Dogs to Hunting Dogs and all dogs in between, they owe their common and unique traits to their ancient ancestors: the wonderful wild wolf.

Throughout history, wolves served as both companions and working animals. They assisted in hunting, guarded settlements, and provided protection. Different cultures revered and incorporated wolves into their folklore and spirituality, recognizing their intelligence, strength, and loyalty.; the way each member of the family pack behaves and contributes in their own unique way for the good of the pack as a whole.               In essence, wolves were not merely animals; they became esteemed members of early human societies. Let’s not forget, we humans are animals too.

Modern Perspectives: Despite their critical role in history, wolves have faced numerous and ongoing challenges, including habitat loss at an unprecedented rate, unjustified persecution, and an incredible amount of sheer misunderstanding. Human encroachment into their original territories has threatened their very existence, leading to conservation efforts aimed at preserving these vital apex predators.  These beautiful and vital creatures are being murdered simply due to their species and lack of enforced protection, and that has to stop.

Moreover, understanding the evolutionary link between wolves and dogs provides invaluable insights into canine behavior, health, and genetics. Scientific research continues to explore the genetic similarities and differences between wolves and dogs, unraveling long standing mysteries and enhancing our human understanding of our own four-legged companions.

The ongoing efforts to conserve wolf populations, reintroduce them to natural habitats, and promote coexistence highlight the significance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with these magnificent creatures. Their conservation not only ensures the preservation of a keystone species but also contributes to maintaining naturally balanced ecosystems.

Wolves Are Incredibly Loyal And Are Devoted To Their Mate And Family Pack For Life

The story of wolves is intertwined with the evolution of dogs and the history of humanity itself.  Their role as ancestors to our beloved canine companions is an integral part of our shared history. Wolves have left an indelible mark on human civilization, from the ancient bond that catalyzed domestication of dogs, to the enduring lessons they offer us about our interconnectedness with the natural world.

Recognizing the importance of wolves is not merely about acknowledging their past significance but also about embracing their continued relevance in modern times. By understanding and respecting these magnificent creatures, we honor our shared history and ensure a more compassionate and harmonious coexistence with the natural world, for indeed, we are all expressions of Mother Nature herself.

Wolves are not just animals; they are guardians of our past and vital contributors to the beauty and diversity of our planet, deserving of our utmost admiration and protection.