Pets Love to Return to Nature

As much as we love our pets, and they seem to care about us, they know their natural place is freedom. By caring for our pets we have replaced their need to look after themselves, we feed them, clean them and take care of their health needs.

Sharing Nature With Your Pets

Outdoor spaces that you can enjoy with your pets are becoming more popular. There are many benefits to spending time in nature with pets. Purdue University conducted research on the role of pet ownership in childhood and the connection to nature and in adulthood. They found that the most important factor was active engagement and involvement in the care of childhood pets.

Physical Health Benefits For Pets

One of the reasons pets enjoy being outdoors is that it is really good for their mobility and great exercise. Pets tend to become sluggish or irritable, (like humans), without access to the outdoors.

I used to have a Siberian Husky, and learnt quickly that this breed of dog was not a lover of the indoors. A natural hunter and digger, and totally in her element in the winter snow, she did not need an excuse to bounce up and down in the deep Canadian snow.

If your have a winter dog, like a husky or malamute you might want to try Skijoring, a Scandinavian sport which has spread throughout the world. Remember to use paw protection for long jaunts. These dogs are originally working breeds, and crave action.

It is good for pets to be in the natural environment which they would have enjoyed if they were not adopted by humans.

Stress relief

Pets can become bored and anxious without enough activities outdoors. Destructive dogs and cats are just reacting to a lack of stimulation and proper outlet for their energy. Being in nature will nuture and enhance your pets natural abilities. They will come alive with energy and awaken dormant abilities.

Bonding with Your Pet

The proximity to a pet depends on the culture, in some cultures pets are family members entitled to the benefits given to a small child, in others, their place is respected but separate from humans.

“To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring – it was peace.” ~ Milan Kundera

Being outdoors with your pet builds the trust, you both share quality time and helps to develop strong communication and obedience skills while navigating the terrain.

As a pet carer, time in nature is builds your confidence and well being. You are active mentally and physically, creating new memories and experiences with your pet which will remain long after they are gone.

Animal trainers will tell you that it is important to expose your pets to new environments where they can use their heightened senses to explore the environment. This will be a win win situation as it is a way of socialising pets naturally. And they will be so tired after a great day out, their rest will be long and deep.

Responsible Outdoor Pets and Companions

Pets just go with their owners. Unfortunately, there are owners who see signs which indicate that their pet is not allowed beyond a certain point, or must be on a leash, and decide that it does not apply to them. Only they know their reasons, but it does cause problems for users of the outdoor spaces.

Environments which see a lot of traffic become and vulnerable and degraded. Rules are in place to protect and preserve as much as we can.

I have seen this a lot on beaches where they are trying to keep the bacteria and pollution levels down to make it safe for everyone on the beach.

Eventually, what happens is a strict enforcement of the bylaws. Local officers will patrol and hand out tickets. We all want to enjoy the environment.

Where to Go And What to Do

Trails – Nature trail hiking is a great way for your pet to experience different spaces. Be prepared for the extra weight you will have to carry: extra food, bowls and blanket.

Trails are wild, with things your pet may not have been exposed to, so include a tick collar and leash when necessary. The leash should be no more than 6ft (1.82cm),

Do not let your pet off leash when they are not recall trained, for safety and out of respect for people in the vicinity. In addition, be prepared for pulling on the leash on long trails.

The I.D. tag should be on the collar and information updated, even if there is a microchip.

Stoop and scoop the poop, and don’t leave the bags on the trail. It should be self evident, but not it is not as I have seen poop bags in the forest.

As with Skijoring, pads for paws can be useful for rough terrain, in addition, be prepared with a pet first aid kit.

Camping – The secret to a good camping experience is preparation. With a pet in tow it is even more important. Most of the items required are the same ones for nature trail hiking. A tent with enough space is a good idea, coupled with a tether, so that you can complete necessary tasks without distraction.

Parks – this is where most people start, especially if you live in a city. Big or small, a park offers the variety and interesting aspects of nature to start the outdoor nature journey with your pet. Trees, wildlife and all the sights and sounds in that green space are waiting to be experienced.

Your backyard – Sometimes we seek destinations far away when the best place is not far from home. All you have to do to share quality time with your pet is open the door to your backyard.

If you have the space, set up agility training cones as these will be good for exercise and obedience training.

On the water – If you love being on the water, try paddle boarding with your pet. Get them comfortable with the water first and bond traversing the water together.

Swimming in the lake is also and option, and fun.

Where you go also depends on the climate. If you have four seasons, choose activities wisely and according to the season.

Final Thoughts

As we can see, there are so many benefits to sharing nature with your pets, from well being, enhanced communication, reduced stress, and an all round better relationship as you rediscover nature together.

Share your outdoor pet experiences in the comments below. Let us know how you help your pet return to nature.