Lately, I can’t stop thinking about walks with a dog. The question, Who is the walk for? comes to mind every time I see someone walking their dog—on or off leash—completely disconnected from them. Whether they’re talking on the phone, checking messages, chatting with someone else, or simply walking at a much faster pace than their dog, who just wants to explore and sniff around, I can't help but feel a pang of sadness.
I value walks with my own dogs so much. I won’t pretend that I’m never distracted or that I always enjoy them 100%—though by the end of the walk, I almost always do. Weather, mood, work, and personal thoughts can all influence how I feel. But the moment I see my dogs exploring, smiling, checking in with me, hunting for mice, or simply running around, I instantly feel a wave of joy. Sharing that experience with them is priceless. So how can a walk feel like a chore to some people?

Those who know me well know that I have a soft spot for senior dogs. One of the most heartbreaking things I witness is an elderly dog—moving slowly, struggling with mobility, perhaps not seeing or hearing well—trying to catch up with their owner, who is far ahead and barely looking back. The disconnection is striking. Even worse is when a senior dog, already walking at the only pace they can manage, is constantly tugged on the leash because their owner is impatient or in a rush.

I truly believe most people love their dogs—or at least, I hope they do. But I wish I could remind them: Your dog won’t be here forever. Appreciate every moment, because time moves too fast when it comes to our pets' lives. That tiny puppy will grow up in the blink of an eye. The years with them will always feel too short.
So cherish them. Connect with them. Be patient with them. Have fun with them. And love them unconditionally—because that’s exactly what they do for us.

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