As COVID19 creeps around the country, our dogs have become a source of solace in our locked-down worlds.

For those living alone, dogs especially have become a great source of comfort. 

Maintaining our physical and psychological health may be the greatest challenge of being stuck inside.

While the internet has emerged as a lifeline for many, it is important to also remember the importance of outside stimulus not only for ourselves, but also for our dogs. Exercise and fresh air are essential for maintaining physical and mental wellbeing. Fortunately walking our dogs is still a permissible reason to go outside, along with other essentials like grocery shopping and seeking medical care. 

If there is a silver lining to COVID19, it is that we are embracing a slower life. COVID19  has brought my frantic life to a screeching halt. Some of the things I appreciate from my new-found ‘boredom’ are:

Spending more time with my dog 

Cooking for my dog

Painting portraits of my dog

Appreciating simple pleasures like walking my dog…

As our bodies and minds start to recover from a lifetime of bustling activity, may we all learn to live in the present, like our dogs.