Zachary DouglasAfter a day full of fun and responsibilities, spending time and caring for your furry friend, you both deserve a more tranquil evening. Long walks or playing in the park may have taken their toll, especially if one of you isn’t as young as they used to be. While more traditional relaxation methods like listening to podcasts or meditation have their place, they are not perfect for many dog owners who also like to include their canine partner in their evening activities.
So, if you are looking for some dog-friendly options for spending your downtime, here are some suggestions, some of which you may not have considered before.
#1 Cook a meal
Cooking can be a therapeutic activity for you, especially as any activity in the kitchen will get the undivided attention of your canine companion. You should consider preparing the type of meal that suits the palate of both your and your dog’s dietary needs. However, you’ll have to research the ingredients thoroughly.
The process of chopping and stirring is repetitive and can be almost meditative, providing you with a calming experience and a healthy meal for you both. This process can stimulate your creativity and help strengthen the bond with your dog as they know they are getting an equal share and not just the last bite from your plate.
#2 Low-stress entertainment cuddled up on the couch
If it’s cold outside, you can settle down on the couch wrapped in a blanket, and you will no doubt be joined by your dog soon after. This gives you the opportunity to snuggle down together and enjoy some escapism in the form of playing online pokies for real money. You’ll find plenty there to keep you amused, including some dog-themed slots, as well as more traditional casino fare like roulette and blackjack.
These games are quite quick to play, so you can quickly take a break to scratch an ear, offer a treat, or open the back door should a trip to the garden be necessary.
#3 Indulge your creative urges
If you check your phone, you are likely to find that at least every third photo on there will be of your dog. This being the case, you can use these to indulge your creative urges in one way or another. You could post those photos on Instagram or Facebook to show others, and you might even find that your four-legged friend gains more of a following than you do.
If this is not your style, you could edit some to go on your wall or use them along with some live studies (if your dog stays still long enough) to create some drawings or other artwork. Creating these unique pieces will give you lasting memories of your best friend.
A few final thoughts
Having a dog is a 24 hour a day experience, so you should look to make the most of your evenings with them, especially if you spend the day at work. This might entail cooking a meal with them or cuddling on the couch while engaging in digital distractions. You can also use your huge library of photos to embark on a canine-centered hobby that brings attention to your dog and indulges your creative side.
