Friday 16th February marks the first day of the Chinese New Year – and this time around it’s the Year of the Dog!
While some of us are lucky enough to spend all day at home with our pup, others get little precious special time with our furry friends.
It should come as no surprise that no matter what your schedule is like, quality one-on-one time with your dog is super important, both for your pup and for you!
Banish boredom, boost their health and wellbeing, and offer them new experiences to make this the happiest and healthiest year your dog has ever had!
Are you a dog owner? Then why not mark the start of the Year of the Dog by treating your pooch to one of the following, courtesy of Katie of Ball and Biscuit Professional Pet Services.
Dog Yoga or ‘Doga’!
Dog yoga enthusiasts say that the practice works to emphasize the union between beings, to help establish a pack mentality, strengthen the bond between owner and pet, and can give additional weight resistance which intensifies a yoga ritual. The dogs also provide a great source of entertainment for the class members.
Dog yoga can be done with any size dog. When you perform dog yoga, you are manipulating your dog’s body, which helps you to gain trust between each other. Although it may take some time for your dog to get used to doing doga with you, it may offer some physical and emotional benefits for you both.
Both you and your pooch will benefit from practicing the mindfulness-based exercise together. With “doga,” you’ll improve your posture and sleep more soundly. Your pup will benefit from increased circulation and, of course, the time spent bonding with his favorite human.
Namastewoof!
Take a break with your beloved pooch!
There are an abundance of dog-friendly hotels and B&B’s available online.
A beautiful country retreat is best, as you and your four-legged friend can make the most of the picturesque surroundings and countryside walks.
There are also a number of great attractions around Sussex that are open to dogs; for example, why not take them on the Bluebell Railway, where you can even pay for a special dog ticket for them to ride the rails!
Find a new walking route!
The rolling hills throughout the Sussex countryside means that a picturesque walk is never far away.
You’re absolutely spoiled for choice – there’s a whole host of National Trust sites to explore, various beaches, and miles upon miles of the South Downs Way trail.
So why not mix up the routine, discover somewhere new, and invigorate your dog’s senses with some new sights, smells and sounds?
Find a list of dog walks here.
Play a new game!
Opportunities for active and social play provide a mental and physical outlet for dogs.
They are able to practice physical skills that they might need in the wild for survival, such as chasing and catching prey.
Practicing these skills helps your dog feel secure in his ability to survive. If you can find a toy or game that uses several of your dog’s senses, it is even better.
Puzzle toys that challenge her to think are wonderful for brain chemistry. If you can participate and toss the puzzle toy, the game is good for you both!
Great examples include hide-and-seek, a treasure hunt for a tasty treat, or even teaching them a new trick.
For services including dog walks, overnight boarding, drop-in feeding and more in Seaford and the surrounding area, visit Ball and Biscuit Professional Pet Services.
