By Laurie Hood
Every January, I find myself thinking less about big resolutions and more about how I want the year to feel. Calmer. More connected. More intentional. And almost always, the answers lead me right back to the animals.
At Alaqua, we see every day how closely human well-being and animal well-being are tied together. Dogs need movement, fresh air, routine, and connection. Turns out, we do too.
One of the healthiest habits I have ever built is simply walking. Walking with a dog gives you no excuse not to go. They are ready. They are patient (well, my dog Archie may not always be). And they remind you that the point is not speed or distance, but showing up.
Some of my favorite moments at Alaqua happen on the trails. Early mornings, quiet afternoons, volunteers walking dogs who arrived scared and leave a little lighter. You can feel the shift in the dog and in the person holding the leash.
Spending time outdoors does something we cannot replicate indoors. It slows the nervous system. It gives perspective. Dogs experience the world through scent and sound, and when we let them lead for a moment, we slow down too. That pause matters more than we realize.
Volunteering is another place where wellness and purpose intersect. Many of our volunteer roles involve movement and being outside, whether it is walking dogs, helping with enrichment, or simply being present. Giving your time to animals in need can ground you. It reminds you why kindness matters.
This year, we are especially excited to offer guided hikes where you can bring your dog and walk the land with us. These hikes are not about fitness goals or keeping pace. They are about connection. To your dog. To nature. To a community that believes caring for animals makes the world better for everyone.
Dogs also teach us how to be present. Sitting beside them. Breathing. Stretching. Letting go of the phone for a few minutes. They do not need us to be perfect. They just need us to be there.
As the year begins, I hope we can all be a little gentler with ourselves. Build routines that support us rather than pressure us. Get outside more. Walk together. Volunteer when we can. Let our dogs remind us what matters.
Health does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a leash, a trail, and the decision to step outside.
Laurie Hood is the founder of Alaqua Animal Refuge and believes that caring for animals and caring for ourselves are deeply connected.
