I named her Joy on purpose.
When we brought home our mini Cavapoo nearly a year ago, I wanted more than a dog to love. I wanted a reminder—a tiny, fluffy, impossible-to-ignore reminder—to slow down, go outside and pay attention to the good stuff happening right in front of us.
Researchers have found that time with pets lowers stress hormones in both adults and children, and that kids who grow up with animals show greater empathy and emotional resilience. Joy does not know any of that. She just wants to go for a walk. And honestly, she is usually right.
This summer, let your pet lead you back to the things that actually matter.
5 Ways Your Pet Can Improve Your Wellness This Summer
1. Take the daily walk. Your dog does not negotiate—rain or shine she is at the door. Let that be the push you need to get outside and move your body every single day.
2. Explore Cincinnati's parks. Ault Park, Devou, the Little Miami trails: this city has some of the most beautiful green spaces around and your pup is the perfect reason to finally enjoy them.
3. Let your kids take the lead. Feeding, walking and caring for an animal teaches children empathy and responsibility in ways nothing else quite replicates. Give them a real role and watch them rise to it.
4. Find your dog-friendly spots. Cincinnati has incredible pet-welcoming patios and gathering spaces. Make it a weekly family ritual and notice how much slower and sweeter the weekend feels.
5. Bring them along. Car rides, day trips, family outings—when your pet is woven into your life instead of managed around it, everyone relaxes. The kids are happier. The pace softens. And they are just glad to be there.
That is what I have learned from a tiny pup who weighs less than my purse. Presence is the point. Sometimes it takes a dog to remind us.
About Brooke Griffin Farmer
Brooke Griffin Farmer is a USA Today best-selling author, entrepreneur, former Cincinnati Bengals cheerleader and Fitness Universe champion. She’s passionate about helping women live well—body, mind and spirit. Brooke is the creator of Move Pray Love, a podcast and lifestyle brand that blends faith, food and wellness. She lives in Cincinnati with her husband and children.
@BrookeGriffinFarmer | OurFarmerHouse.com