Exploring Woofing Woods: A Journey to Mindful Dog Ownership

I recently had the privilege of booking Woofing Woods, a secure dog woodland near Bramhope in Leeds, to provide my reactive dog, Neville, with the freedom he so desperately needed. Little did I know that this experience would impact me just as profoundly.

As a dog owner, I'd describe myself as being laid-back. While my dogs aren't always running wild, my attitude is one of "going with the flow." Whether they want to chase off a bird or splash in a puddle, I'm all for it. They do get their off-lead time, but it's usually short bursts under controlled conditions. 

Neville's reactivity has been a topic of discussion on my social media platforms. While he's become calmer on walks, I wanted to give him the chance to explore at his own pace. After all, whippets were born to run!

Upon arriving at Woofing Woods, excitement filled the air as I let the pack off their leads. With four and a half acres of woods at our disposal, Bella and Luna eagerly engaged their senses, sniffing nearby bushes. Neville, however, took a few steps and froze. His body tensed, ears pricked, and head darted around, like a meerkat on alert for predators.

After realising he was safe, Neville's posture eased, and off he went. All three dogs embarked on a sniffing adventure, soon transitioning to energetic zooming around. Witnessing their joy, I felt immense happiness. I decided to follow their lead and let them revel in the moment.

Around 15 minutes in, a wave of emotion washed over me. It was at this point that I recognised the extent of anxiety I had been carrying during our usual walks. While I had booked this space for Neville's benefit, we both experienced an unexpected sense of tranquility.

I've always known my dogs contribute positively to my mental health. They were my companions during challenging times, providing comfort when my dad passed away. They're the reason I wake up early and seize each day. They even inspired me to establish my business and foster a community of like-minded individuals. Nevertheless, the stress of outdoor walks became apparent.

Twice a day, I found myself scanning for potential hazards, constantly vigilant for threats, and safeguarding my dogs. But in this serene woodland setting, surrounded by trees, it struck me: my mindfulness had been compromised. The ceaseless hunt for danger and the hyper-awareness had woven threads of worry into our outings. This, I believe, had contributed to Neville's nervousness. However, amidst the serenity of Woofing Woods, stress seemed to dissolve. Neville, Bella, Luna, and I were in our element, shedding worries.

As we prepared to leave this haven for dogs, I carried with me a newfound insight. I understood that releasing my anxieties and being present in the moment was crucial. Perhaps, by letting go of the constant search for danger, Neville and I could truly relish our adventures together.