Reclaiming Outdoor Space with Pets

Many adults in our community are still feeling the lingering effects of the global lockdown. Others have adapted to remote work and rarely find a reason to step out of their homes. But, did you know that spending too much time indoors can actually harm your health? Far too many Black adults today need a constant reminder to step outdoors and engage with the world around them. One powerful motivator to step outside includes having a furry companion.

According to a study by Michigan State University, only 34% of Black households own a pet, which is small compared to the total number of American households that own a pet. This means that members of our community are missing out on the benefits of pet ownership. Adopting or acquiring a pet can be the game-changer if you are struggling with improving your outdoor habits.

Significant disparity still exists in the location of parks across the United States. For example, in New York City, the average park size is 7.9 acres in predominantly Black neighborhoods compared to 29.8 acres in predominantly white neighborhoods. Also, data from National Park services showed that 77% of visitor to the 419 national parks are White. Just 6% identified as Black. So, what role do these numbers play in public health?

The physical and mental health impact of living indoors

Exposure to sunlight (especially early morning sun) helps the body to produce vitamin D. This vitamin is vital for bone health and immune functions. When you start getting less sunshine, you risk developing vitamin D deficiency, which can manifest as a weakened immune system, weaker bones, and increased susceptibility to cold. Other potentially negative health impacts of spending too much time indoors include:

Weight gain: Lack of physical activity leads to weight gain, which also sets the foundation for other chronic diseases.
Higher risk of chronic diseases: Several studies suggest that spending too much time indoors increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure.
Poor air quality: Indoor air can be polluted by radon, which has been implicated with cancer; and even asthma due to dust and allergen buildup.

Beyond the physical impact, a sedentary lifestyle can also take a toll on your mental health. Studies have associated too much indoor time with increased risk of depression and anxiety. It can also lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and altered sleep patterns, which are all factors that increase the risk of depression and anxiety.

How pets encourage us to reclaim outdoor spaces

Pets have an innate passion for the outdoors, which can rub off on their human owner. To stay healthy and happy, pets need exercise. Physical activities help to maintain their weight, keep their cardiovascular system healthy, and strengthen their muscles.

Black adults who own pets are forced to include outdoor walk or run in their routine. An hour or less spend in outdoor spaces will have a positive impact on both physical and mental wellbeing of not just the pet but also their owner. Pets inspire us to embrace nature in the following ways.

1. Daily pet walks/runs

When you create a strong bond with your pet, you always want to make sure they are healthy. Even when you don’t want to step outside, the desire to keep your dog safe will be enough motivation to step outside your door. Morning walks or runs can quickly become a time for mindfulness and relaxation.

2. Exploring new places

A collaborative study conducted by Walthman Center for Pet Nutrition and the University of Western Australia in 2015 reported that in both the United States and Australia, people felt safer walking with their dog. When we feel safe about our environment, we are more willing to explore new areas and embrace more outdoor adventures.

3. Socializing

Nothing brings people together better than shared responsibilities. Pet owners who meet each other outdoors—whether in parks or while going on a walk—easily connect and build lasting relationships. Sometimes, the relationship is ignited by their pets playing together. In a 2015 study supported by Waltham, researchers found that dog owners were five times more likely to know their neighbors than non-owners, which can lead to less loneliness.

5 activities you can do with your pet when outdoors

Even when your pet is the motivation to go outdoors, it is still up to you to come up with activities to make each outing memorable—and by extension, enjoy the full physical and mental benefits. For small communities with lesser green spaces, here are some of the ways you can get active with your pet.

Take daily walks: To improve heart health, people from 18 to 59 years are recommended to take 7,000 to 10,000 steps daily. Having a pet companion will make it easier to achieve that goal. Track your progress with a smartwatch.
Use the side walk: Maximize the everyday features of your environment if there are no dedicated parks for you. For example, the side walk can become a mini workout tool for training your pet.
Park playdate: Use platforms like Meetup.com to find like-minded pet owners that you can socialize with in a share space. This technique has birthed long-lasting relationships. Alternatively, spending quality time in a park provides a great opportunity for you and your pet to socialize with other pets and owners.
Shopping: While taking your pet to a shopping mall may be off limits, a farmer’s market will be open for you to explore and get healthy foods for you and your furry friend.
Fetch games: Dogs love fetch games, which can be played with stick, frisbee, or a ball in the lawn or backyard, and it serves as a form of physical exercise for the dog.

Pets don’t just bring companionship—they remind us to reconnect with the world outside of our walls. In Black communities, where green space is limited, pet ownership can become a powerful tool for reclaiming spaces, fostering well-being, building stronger social skills, and lessening loneliness. Step outside with your pet and start a healthier life.

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