Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean meditation, silence or setting aside time for quiet reflection. It can be as simple as paying attention to the pet sitting beside you.
Our pets live in the present, and slowing down to notice their needs, behaviour and daily routines can help us become more intentional too.
For Jacqui Martheze, manager and coordinator at Woodrock Animal Rescue, one of South Africa’s oldest no-kill shelters, mindfulness with pets has two important sides: understanding what they need and recognising what they give us in return.
Martheze is also the driving force behind Paws@Work, an initiative that brings pups into workplaces to boost mental wellness.
Mindfulness starts with noticing what your pet needs
“The first is being mindful of your animal and all of their needs,” she says.
That begins with physical care, including grooming, fresh water, food, shelter and ensuring pets aren’t exposed to excessive heat.
It also means paying close attention to changes in their behaviour.
“It’s also about paying attention to their body language,” says Jacqui. “For example, does my dog maybe have an ear infection? Is he growling when I touch his ears, pulling away, or moving his head because he doesn’t want me touching him as he is in pain?”
The emotional side is just as important.
“Animals need touch, socialisation with other animals and interaction with humans. They need stimulation. You have to understand those particular needs,” she says.
Pets can help us slow down too
Being more attentive to an animal isn’t only beneficial for the pet.
“There have been many scientific studies showing how animals help settle our nervous systems, lower blood pressure, and increase serotonin levels,” explains Jacqui.
Children and adults face enormous pressure, with social media adding to feelings of being constantly judged.
Pets offer something different.
“They make us feel accepted. They love you because you are you, not because of what you have or what you look like. I think all of those things are part of mindfulness.”
So how can you bring more mindfulness into the relationship you already have with your pet?
Jacqui suggests starting with the small moments.
1. Start with their basic care
Make sure your pet’s everyday needs are met.
Keep water bowls filled, feed them properly and pay attention to whether they’re comfortable.
“In winter, if you’re cold, they probably are too – a cosy jersey can make all the difference.”
Being mindful means noticing what your pet might need rather than waiting for them to show obvious signs of discomfort.
2. Make their environment comfortable
Think about your pet’s surroundings as the weather and their needs change.
On rainy days, for example, make sure they can move easily in and out of the house.
Creating a space where they feel comfortable, secure and cared for is part of paying attention to their everyday experience.
3. Start the morning together
A simple shared ritual can help set the tone for the day.
“Whether it’s putting on your dog’s jersey, sitting together, or letting them curl up on your lap – be present.”
Instead of immediately rushing into the day’s responsibilities, spend a few moments paying attention to what’s happening right in front of you.
4. Give them your full attention
It’s easy to feed a pet, open the door or give them a quick pat without really thinking about it.
Mindful interaction means being present.
Touch them, sit with them and interact in ways that meet both their needs and yours.
“Life becomes so much better when we actually pay attention to the little things instead of rushing through the day thinking only about work and responsibilities.”
5. Greet your pet properly when you get home
Before getting caught up in everything that needs to happen after work, spend a moment reconnecting with your pet.
“When you get home from work, take a moment to greet your pets properly, let them outside, or clip on the lead for a walk.”
That intentional pause can become part of your daily routine while strengthening the bond between you.
6. Let your dog stop and sniff on walks
A walk isn’t only about getting from one point to another or completing a certain distance.
“Let your dog stop and sniff; that’s their joy and stimulation. As they explore, you get a chance to breathe, relax, and reset your mind.”
Allowing your dog time to explore can turn an ordinary walk into an opportunity for both of you to slow down.
7. Notice the joy they bring
Even when you’re tired, pay attention to your pet’s excitement about spending time with you.
A walk offers fresh air and exercise, but it can also create opportunities to connect with your pet, nature and the people you encounter along the way.
“Mindfulness is about doing everything with intention,” says Jacqui.
That could be as ordinary as sitting on the couch watching television while your pet lies beside you and taking the time to stroke them.
You don’t need to turn the moment into anything more than it is.
Just be there.
“They see you as their whole world, and you need to savour that,” says Jacqui.
Our animals won’t be with us forever, making those seemingly insignificant everyday moments worth noticing.
“Let them add value to our lives, and make sure we add value to theirs, too.”
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