How Play Gap’s Pets Inspire Wellness
Playing sports isn’t just about competing, it’s also about community and simply moving your body. When participating in organized sports isn’t always possible, look to the animals in your life as motivators to increase your activity levels. You don’t have to plan an extensive hike with your dog or train your cat to go on walks to find moments to be outside with your pet and boost your mood.
Keep reading to meet members of Play Gap and their four-legged friends as they share how their animals help them stay active and feeling grounded to improve their mental and physical wellness.
Pippin and Costello
Pet Parent: Katie Markielowski, Play Gap’s Member Relations Coordinator
Katie’s dogs, Pippin and Costello, exemplify the fact that animals’ demands for exercise can’t always be scheduled. Having her buddies relying on her to play and take care of them at a moment’s notice though keeps her moving.
“Costello has been a constant in my life for over a decade. Having a happy tail wagging just for you at the end of a long practice really warms the heart. Pippin’s intense need for constant action has kept me moving even on days my motivation is lacking. And on my worst days, nothing is better than a good pup cuddle.”
Ginger, Mia, and Arlie
Pet Parent: Elise Vue, Play Gap’s Co-Founder and Director of Marketing
Pets can be a great reminder to step away from technology and enjoy some fresh air without distraction. Working from home, Elise’s pack helps her to slow down, take a break, and enjoy the things that matter most.
“Having an active dog is a great motivator to go outside and walk around my neighborhood. It forces me to put my phone down and just be present with her and nature which has been great for my mental and physical health. And the cats’ playfulness never ceases to put a smile on my face.”
Aiko
Pet Parent: Adriana Viana, Play Gap’s Social Justice Volunteer
While pet ownership is hard work, it also offers structure and a sense of purpose that can be good for our mental health.
“Aiko helps me put energy and love into someone else, even when I don’t have the strength to give it to myself.”
Penny
Pet Parent: Carol Mack, Play Gap Board Vice President and Secretary
Penny proves that pets can be the best fitness companions for their owners and inspire others around them! Consider bringing your animal to your next game or practice and see how quickly your teammates’ faces light up.
“We run with Penny three times a week, and she loves coming with me to my gym. She also goes with me to my job at Beaumont School’s weight room and helps motivate the female athletes there to come in for lifting!”
Frankie
Pet Parent: Ramona Paul, Volunteer Chair
Frankie the bearded dragon also encourages healthy habits! Self care looks different for every person and every pet, so be sure to pay attention to your own unique needs and those of your animals to better cater your approach to wellness.
“We both need to get out in the sun to thrive and feel energized!”
Basil
Pet Parent: Sam Husted, Play Gap’s Content Marketing Specialist
Basil is a daily reminder that companionship can make any routine more enjoyable. If you need help committing to a schedule, incorporate your pets to assist with the accountability and fun of otherwise dreaded activities.
“Basil helps me stick to a schedule and is always down for a walk. She is my shadow and makes doing the silliest things around the house more fun.”
Ultimately, what matters most in sports (and life) is finding joy in movement and connection. When we’re not playing sports though, one of the easiest ways to improve our mood and overall wellness is by finding opportunities throughout the day to embrace our pets as motivation for physical activity and being in nature.
If you need help finding a community or getting active, talk to us at Play Gap and we’ll help connect you to the people and resources you need to be successful.
