From the time we are little, we’re told sharing is caring, but dog sharing? Yes! Our four-legged, canine companions are notorious for bringing good will and cheer everywhere they go, so why not share that love and companionship with someone that can really use it?
Items Needed for Dog Sharing
- Leash
- Paper Towels
- Dog Bed
- Dog Brush
- Harness
- Food and Water Bowls
- Your Dog’s Favorite Treats
- Green Cleaning Supplies
Read How to Clean Up After Dogs.
Dog Sharing at a Nursing Home
Nursing homes and senior centers are the perfect place to take your dog for a visit. Often times, the older individuals living there don’t have family members that live within visiting distance, so a greeting from your furry companion can change up the daily routine in a positive way and add a dose of fun and laughter to a somewhat serious atmosphere.
Dog Sharing allows you to show off Fido’s tricks to the residents. You can let the seniors pet and cuddle with your pup, and if he or she is well behaved enough, you can even pose for photos. Whatever the case, make sure to have some green cleaning supplies on hand, just in case your dog gets nervous or excited and makes a mess.
Visit a School
The only thing that kids love more than ice cream is dogs, so if dog sharing is what you like to do, going to a local school yard is a great place to do it. Be sure to clear the visit with the proper authorities at the school before you take your dog there.
Kids and dogs have a natural understanding of one another which makes watching them interact all the more enjoyable. There’s nothing better than laughing, running, jumping, and playing.
Dog sharing is also great for teaching young people about responsibility and caring for others. Use this to your advantage, and take some time to talk a little bit about proper care, demonstrating with your bowl of water and dog treats proper feeding techniques. You can also show kids how to put a harness on, proper leashing techniques and the list goes on.
If you’re going to do dog sharing in a particular class room, make sure to bring some green cleaning supplies and a clean sponge. Just in case. This will ensure no kids or your beloved pet are exposed to anything toxic.
Visit a Hospital
Hospitals tend to get a bad rap, after all, they are places we visit when we’re sick or battling serious health problems. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to bring some much needed cheer to those that are suffering? Don’t forget to check with the hospital for permission and if there are restrictions for the visit.
There is! Dog sharing at a local hospital, letting it visit with kids, adults, and seniors alike. A furry friend can really put a different perspective on the healing and recovery process. Plus, they say there’s no better medicine than a smile and laughter.
Again, you’ll want to bring green cleaning supplies in case somebody makes a mess. Assuming your canine is well-trained, you probably have nothing to be worried about, but it never hurts to be prepared.
There’s no better time to get into the sharing spirit than right now. Reach out to your community leaders today and see if you can participate at an upcoming event!