Getting Outside
- Fernanda Fisher
- Jan 7
- 2 min read
With spring-like temperatures today in Virginia, I took time out to bring the dogs to a private yard in Alexandria where they could romp and play. It also gave me an opportunity to turn off my phone and reconnect with nature. Getting outside is important for both humans and dogs.
Because we no longer have a yard of our own, it is up to me to find places where Winston and Maisie can run around off-leash. After days of cold weather, and walks around our neighborhood, today’s sunny skies and warm temperatures were the perfect excuse to get out there and throw a ball.
When the leashes came out and the Chuck It stick materialized from the cabinet, they knew something exciting was about to happen. Gone were the sleepy eyes and reclining postures of my two fur-kids. They were bright eyed and ready for action.
While Winston hates the car, he didn’t back away from the door when it opened, and I leaned down to pick him up. Maisie couldn’t wait to vault into the seat and be buckled in for the ride.
Ten minutes later, we were at a private yard with fresh water, poop-free grass, and plenty of sniffs to explore.
I find yards for us to visit using an app called Sniffspot. For a small fee to the homeowners, you can visit for an hour and play without worrying about other dogs invading your space.
Since Winston dislikes other dogs, this allows us all to have fun and not worry about altercations. For almost a full hour today, we threw and retrieved a ball, practiced our recall commands, and enjoyed some fresh air. It was a great way to spend a bit of the afternoon reconnecting with my dogs and appreciating the place we were in.
If you have a chance, take the time to get outside and turn off your phone. Listen to the birds, airplanes, or dogs happily barking and playing. It is a great way to reset yourself midway through the week.
nice reminder to get outside in whatever way you can.