Our Pets Say, "It's Time To Play!"

Playing with our pets is a lot more than good old fun, although it is that too!  Playing and having fun helps us to eliminate stress, and the same is true for our pets.  Incorporating various forms of play into our pets' daily routine is vital to helping them develop confidence, good health, and mental well-being.  Here are just a few of the many ways both dogs and cats and, yes, even humans  can benefit from regular playtime activity.

 

* Behavioral benefits:
If a pet gets bored, they’re very likely to take out their frustrations by acting out in a negative manner.  Some pets scratch furniture, some soil in the house, and some chew anything and everything in sight.  Setting aside playtime each day lets pets know that they’re loved and cared for and keeps them from getting too bored.  Want a well-behaved pet?  Play with them every day!

 

* Physical benefits: 
Playtime almost always includes plenty of physical exercise, so it’s benefiting our pets' body and overall health.  Pets who spend their days romping around on the floor are burning calories without even realizing it; keeping their weight in check, their muscles strong, and their joints flexible and healthy.  This is also a good way for us humans to fit some exercise into our daily routine as well, so I'd say this is a win-win for all!   

 

* Mental benefits:
Don’t forget about the mental benefits of regular playtime with our pets.  Playing games helps keep reflexes sharp and reaction times quick.  Searching through a homemade obstacle course, finding hidden treat treasures in various corners of the house, or playing hide-and-seek with other family members keeps our pets' brains sharp and focused!  Pets who sit around doing nothing all day are letting their bodies and minds get stale - avoid this by enjoying  a play session every day.

 

* Socialization: 
When our pets play with other animals and/or people, it helps improve their overall social skills.  They learn basic rules and how to play by them - well, at least some of the time!  

 

* Pet owner bonding:
Of course, daily playtime with our beloved pets is about more than physical, mental, or behavioral benefits; it serves as quality pet-owner bonding time as well.  Any healthy pet needs regular attention and care from their owner, and daily playtime is perfect for this.  The time we spend with our pets, even if it's only a few minutes a day, will allow us to learn about each other’s personality and mannerisms, strengthening the very special  and unique life-long bond we share with our furry friends.

 

With all this talk about the benefits of quality playtime with our pets and the importance of socialization, I should also point out a few of the fun pet-friendly events Pet Pal Animal Shelter has coming up.  Enjoy Dog Day at the Rays at Tropicana Field this coming Sunday, September 20th; the "Totally 80s" Party for the Paws at Fergs Sports Bar on Saturday, September 26th; Yappy Hour at World of Beer on Thursday, October 8th; and Pet Pal's annual doggie reunion at Fort DeSoto Dog Beach on Sunday, October 11th.  For more details on these or any other upcoming events, please call 727-328-7738 or visit "petpalanimalshelter.com".

 

So why are you still sitting there reading this blog?  Your pets are patiently waiting for you to come out and play with them!!! 

 

Happy Tails to you until we meet again!