Pets especially dogs, our loyal companions and friends need our attention, love and care from time to time. These little creatures bond with humans as a pack, they need walks, playing time, activity, exercising and care. But when owners prioritize and use their mobile phones and devices more than being with their pets, it causes anxiety, depression and behavioral issues amongst them. It is very crucial for a pet owner to dedicate proper time and tend to the needs of their pet as it is an important step to keep their pets mentally and physically fit and healthy.
Less Attention Cause Feeling Neglected:
Pets need attention, it keeps them mentally stimulated and healthy. Constant petting, vocal recalls, walks and play time are necessary dog needs which can be neglected or less cared for if the owner keeps open tabs on devices. This ruins quality time spent with your pet. And being neglected and less cared for can make them feel isolated and lonely. Dogs can engage in depressive and odd behavior due to this, they do tail chasing, destructive chewing and obsessive paw licking, etc.
Weakens Pet And Owner Bond:
Dogs bond through shared experiences, touch, cues and eye contact. When you are busy on your phone, laptop, etc, you are not living in the moment but are glued to a screen, this leaves the dog feeling neglected and less connected. Less pet and owner bond means less healthy relationship between them which turns down the whole purpose of pet ownership.
Mental Health And Behavior:
Dogs are human companions and when their human mate is less attentive or not present mentally and emotionally, dogs can feel lost. They rely on human cues in a situation, when their humans are busy on phones or screens, dogs can feel lost and insecure causing anxiety.
Healthy Living:
Dogs and humans are meant to be companions, living and experiencing life and situations together, when most of the time is consumed by screens or technology the whole concept of keeping pets and the meaning of their companionship comes crashing down. A pet owner should know when to keep the screens off and be wholly present for their little ones.
What Should be Done:
Just as for any healthy relationship to work, quality time is a must and should always be spent with your pet. Establish clear hours when to take your dog out for a walk, make them exercise, play with them, etc. Always remember to keep your phone or digital device away when dedicating time to your dog, keeping your whole attention just for them.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Do dogs get jealous of phones?
Dogs don't feel jealous same as the way humans do but they recognize when something repeatedly steals your focus, they would develop anxiety, restlessness and seek attention as their interaction, routine and reassurance gets affected.
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How does social media affect animals?
Animals are often misused, exploited, put in situations for videos that can cause them to stress or experience fear just to generate attention and clicks on social media.
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How do humans mistreat animals?
Humans mistreat animals by exploiting them for food, hoarding them, killing them and neglecting them of basic needs such as food, water, safety, etc.
