BY STACY KRAFCZYK

From over 15 years of animal communication/therapy sessions, dogs often request patience from their owners. The following is a description of areas in which dogs would love for us to have more patience.

Exercise

“Let me be a dog,” they’ll say. “Please tell my human that it’s ok to be a dog and roll in the grass and get dirty. I enjoy rolling in the grass or dirt because it’s super fun, and it also clears my energy field.”

Dogs are like little sponges that absorb the energy of their environment so it’s necessary for them to have a good roll. It can dispel all the negative energy that has accumulated in their body over time. Yes, not all times are appropriate for them to roll in mud, dirt or snow. But you can make designated times for them to do so and plan accordingly.

Swimming also helps dogs disperse their energy and is great exercise. Water is very soothing to the soul for all beings. This activity will also be best when planning accordingly. So pack extra towels, water dishes with fresh water and enough time for all to enjoy.

Chewing & Food

Sometimes we are “stingy” on the food and treats according to our dogs. “Give me more! More food, more treats and more chews,” they exclaim.

“I like to chew on sticks and bones so please supply me safe ones to chew on so I don’t choke or hurt myself when I swallow it. And remind my human that it is necessary for me to chew so I can have fun while focusing my energy on the present moment.”

Walking

When your furry friends are on a walk they don’t want to be dragged along because you are in a hurry. Who likes being told to pee or poop on command? And who likes taking the same route for each walk—it’s super boring to them.

Of course, there are times when we must hurry. But make extra time to go on a stroll and lollygag with your pooch. Most dogs love to stop and smell the mailboxes and grass because that’s how they know who was there and what they did.

“Hey, I’m on this walk too ya know! Slow down and let me sniff PLEASE!!” Smells are important to dogs, inside and outside of the house, especially if it’s a breed specific dog that is naturally meant to track. You can go to Cabela’s or Farm and Fleet and purchase pheasant or duck scents and use them outside to stimulate their brain and body connection. In winter, you can add smells to indoor training and play sessions. Several clients’ dogs were over the moon about tracking indoors when it was too cold to play outside.

Aging


“I’m doing my best to love and follow you around but my body is starting to fail me. Please love me and be patient.” It can get frustrating and depleting to watch our beloved canine friend slowly fade away but let’s help them and ourselves through it without stressing them out.

Dog proof the house more from accidents, bring their food and water dishes closer, take them out more frequently, put a diaper on (if necessary) and add more pain meds to their regimen (again, only if necessary as pain meds can have side effects).

So take the time to contemplate the areas you can add a little more patience to your dog’s life. How can you tweak your schedule once or twice a week to accommodate their specific areas of need? You’ll see a noticeable change in their behavior when their needs get met! There are exceptions to all the rules depending on your furry critter. This is just a general guideline since most dogs ask that their human companions exhibit more patience.