I have this theory that dogs are meant to be off leash and not tied up or tethered unless necessary. Necessary = vet visits, unruly, untrained or bad-mannered dogs, PetSmart trips, that kind of thing. I do think that it is important dogs be leash trained and can walk politely on a leash, and I also think leash time is important to the dynamic of the dog-owner relationship. But I also feel that dogs are wanderers and explorers by nature, and unless their breed or temperament excludes them from safely wandering off leash, they should be allowed to do just that in an appropriate area.
I feel likewise about toddlers. When toddlers do finally get their legs, they want to use them 100% of the time. That's when you see them start to fight about getting in the carseat, the stroller, the seat of the grocery cart. I am lucky; my girls don't give me too much trouble in that area. But I also see the look of unbridled glee on their faces when they are allowed to wander. It makes us think that "off leash" time for them is just as important as it is for the dog!
A couple weekends ago we took them to the battlefields for a little nature walk. Both girls stuck by us at the beginning but it didn't take long for the wandering to begin:
Josie and Caroline obsessed over this little footbridge. They walked back and forth over it at least 50 times.
Caroline was our little biologist/geologist... she picked up and examined just about everything she saw.
Josie spent her time looking around, choosing her favorite spots, and sticking with them. It was tough to get her to move on sometimes!
Stevie (our dog) was also in her happy place!
This time of year is so awesome for getting outside... no sweating, sunburns, bees... and I know we will be hitting up parks, trails, playgrounds and fields for some more fall fun! Best part? Everyone loves it and it's FREE!
Sometimes I think dogs and kids aren't so far apart. They both give unconditional love, they both forgive easily, they both have a need to explore, they both need love, time, care and attention. I would love nothing more than to see my kids grow up to have a respect for nature and to love being outside, getting fresh air and sunshine. Hopefully we can foster that by letting them run around and discover the natural world on the regular!
No comments:
Post a Comment