Play with your pets because it’s good for them and its good for YOU!
Playing with your pets increases the emotional bond the two of you share.
It keeps your pets mentally and physically active… and it does the same for you!! Double bonus!
This is especially important if you have adopted an animal later in their life and missed their early developmental and socialization years. The best news is… age doesn’t matter! Playing with your animal as an adult or senior will still develop the same trust and deep emotional bond that it doesn’t with a baby animal!
The most important part is finding play that is enjoyable and fun for your pet (taking into consideration any fears, anxieties, or trust issues). Animals without anything holding them back tend to like, hide & seek, peek a boo, chasing each other, etc… As long as you observe your pets behavior to make sure your pet feels safe this is fun for BOTH of you!
* Quick reminder, animals DO NOT like jokes. Jokes are not play. Jokes break trust *
You don’t have to play for long, even just a little bit every day will create benefits and rewards for both of you.
Be creative. Don’t just mindlessly through a ball or use a laser. Play WITH your pet. Engage WITH your pet. Put your phone away and be present. Let them play back with you!
Play is a beautiful, fun way to develop trust, deepen emotional bonds, and build new relationships with new pets.
