If we could ask our animal companions whether we spend enough time with them, what would their answer be? If we’re being honest, many of us probably aren’t meeting their needs. The United Nations established the International Day of Happiness on March 20 to recognize happiness and well-being as universal rights. Our companions deserve both.

Daily social interaction, mental stimulation and exercise are as important to our animal companions’ health as they are to ours. Cats and dogs who spend long periods alone often suffer from frustration, depression and anxiety. Some guardians try to address resulting behavioral issues by storing animals in crates or bathrooms, which only makes things worse. Continuous crating is cruel and prevents dogs from moving comfortably and indicating the need to relieve themselves. It deprives these social animals of vital connection. Confinement in small spaces frequently leads to separation anxiety, fearfulness, depression, “cage rage,” hyperactivity and other problems. But giving animals the quality time and affection they crave is easy, even on a busy schedule.

Many guardians find that starting the morning with a quick play session or walk instead of rushing out the door helps dogs or cats burn off energy and associate departures with something positive. Leaving catnip toys and paper balls for cats and chew toys, peanut butter-filled Kongs and puzzle treat dispensers for dogs keeps them engaged and active. Just as we can’t go all day without several bathroom breaks, our animals can’t either. Dogs forced to “hold it” are often uncomfortable and even in distress. A trusted friend, relative or dog walker can provide much-needed bathroom breaks if you can’t make it home for midday walks.

Cats are safest and happiest indoors with enrichment, exercise and window perches or an accessible screened patio. To cats, watching the world outside is like watching TV. You can even build a simple “catio” for fresh air and stimulating views when you’re home to supervise.

Another play session or long walk in the evening helps families reconnect. We like to call our walks “sniffaris”—always at our dogs’ pace with plenty of time for smelling and socializing. If you spot someone yanking their dog’s leash, using painful prong or choke collars or demanding that dogs hurry, a gentle conversation can make all the difference.

Guardians have also found that their animals relish being included in evening activities, like “supervising” cooking and cleaning and snuggling in front of the TV. Research has shown that animals understand many of the words we use, and even talking to them can get tails wagging. Dogs may enjoy a game of “hide and seek” with treats or toys, and cats can make great use of delivery boxes. Weekend adventures like a hike, a visit to a dog beach or “catio time” provide exercise and strengthen your bond.

Vacation can also be more fun with the whole family. BringFido.com lists hotels, restaurants and events that welcome animal companions. However, if a flight is long or animals can’t fly in the cabin, they’re safer at home with a trusted sitter. Animals flown in cargo holds have frozen to death, died of heatstroke, escaped and been crushed or suffocated by shifting objects. For comfort and security, home beats a boarding facility every time.

Other simple considerations can make a big difference, too. We would become bored if we had to eat the same thing every day, and animals are no different. Homemade food or healthy snacks can enliven mealtimes. Since scratching helps cats stretch their muscles and shed old nail husks, cat trees and cardboard scratching posts are enjoyable furniture-savers, especially when sprinkled with catnip. Dirty litterboxes can make felines ill, so be sure to have at least one litterbox per cat, scoop throughout the day and clean thoroughly at least once a week.

Being attentive to animals’ needs benefits us, too. Studies have shown that spending time with cherished companions, especially petting or gently brushing them, relieves stress and increases “happy chemicals” in both our brains. Universal happiness and well-being, indeed.

____

Hollie Wood is the associate director of shelter management for PETA, 501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510; www.PETA.org.

___

©2026 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.