The other day I watched a woman walk her dog past our house. She walked within 10 feet of me as I stood in the driveway. So intent on her phone, she didn’t know I was there! She was in her own little world as her dog walked behind her. She wasn’t being present with a pet.

Years ago, I started carrying my phone on walks for safety. I walk Hobbes in the dark, morning or night. I always carry the phone “just in case.” Safety was my first thought.

This past week, I decided to leave the phone home as Hobbes and I took our morning walk. John wasn’t available and whoever texted could wait for us to come back home. I was amazed of the difference of being present with a dog.

Instead of saying, “Come on Hobbes” when he stopped, I stood and waited for him. After a minute, Hobbes decided which direction to go and led the way. We explored the park or I followed Hobbes’ wishes. Our walk was so relaxing. I didn’t have any deadlines and just enjoyed being present in the moment.

I can’t tell you the number of times that Hobbes seems to stall on a walk. Often my reaction was reaching for my phone. Why? Because I’m bored! Once again, I’m enjoying being present with a pet.

Now I’m aware I can walk away from technology. Hobbes doesn’t care if someone “likes” my post about him. He’d rather have my attention or receive a few TTouches. Also, I realized how quickly the technology world just sucks time out of my day.

Often in an animal communication, a pet says she wants her pet parent to “be present” or “sit with me.” Our pets live in the present moment, and we can learn so much from them.

• When possible, put your phone in another room or turn off the sound. Or skip social media for the night.
• Sit with your cat or dog. Just be with him. She will tell you what she wants.
• Try to match your pet’s breathing.
• Pull out the cat’s or dog’s favorite toy, and play with it. I bet you’ll have your pet’s attention real soon.
• On a walk, notice the flowers, plants, trees, and birds.

Enjoy the quiet and being present with your dog or cat. Maybe you’ll have some new thoughts or insights.

And if you are wondering what else your pet wants to tell you, let’s chat about how to set up an animal communication.