Leave your phone behind

Cell phones are ubiquitous. People carry them everywhere, even when they’re walking with their dogs. During a special part of the day with their four-legged friends, they’re listening to music or podcasts, making work calls, and even answering emails and scrolling on social media. I saw someone doing this yesterday, completely distracted by his phone and barely aware of the companion by his side.

My suggestion: leave your phone behind.

While sometimes it might seem like walking your dog is a chore, look at it a different way: Walking with your dog is a privilege, a gift. It’s an opportunity to spend time with your best friend, to enjoy nature together, to meet new friends, and to slow down your life and relax together.

But these opportunities won’t last forever.

Your time with your dog is fleeting. Before you know it, they will be a senior, your walks shorter and the pace slower, and then one day, before you are ready, they will leave this earth. And in that moment, you would give anything – absolutely anything – for one more walk with your dog.

Cherish your time together while you have it.