The Zoomies Incident: Joy, Chaos, and Countryside Care
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like watching a dog get the zoomies. That uncontainable burst of energy, the joyous chaos, the total abandon to the moment - it’s what being a dog is all about. But when you’re out in the countryside, those moments of glee can sometimes have unexpected consequences…
So today, we bring you a story from the path. One that reminds us why we love our dogs so much - and how we can all do our bit to protect the wild spaces they play in.
The Zoomies Incident
Dear Diary
Today, something wild took hold of me / an electric jolt of pure joy. It began with a twitch, a wiggle, a barely-there vibration in my hind legs. And then? I was gone.
A blur of fur, ears flapping like victory flags, tail whirling like a helicopter on overdrive. I tore across the grass, zigzagging like a caffeinated squirrel, looping trees like an Olympic hurdler. Graceful? Maybe not. Glorious? Absolutely. I was the embodiment of speed, freedom, and absolute canine chaos.
But, as all great adventures go… there was a twist.
Enter: The Bush.
An innocent-looking shrub, minding its own leafy business - or so it seemed. Perhaps it appeared from nowhere. Maybe I was too busy living my best zoomie life to notice. Either way, I made impact. Spectacularly. One moment I was airborne, the next, I was in a tangled heap of paws, leaves, and pride.
My hooman gasped. A rabbit paused. Somewhere, a bird probably laughed. But I? I rose like a phoenix from the brambles. Dishevelled, yes. Deterred? Never. The zoomies wait for no dog.
The bush remains - untouched and unbothered. I, however, carry a new badge of honour: Survivor of The Zoomies Incident. And something tells me… they’ll be back. Possibly tomorrow. Possibly in five minutes.
Wildlife & Countryside Tip of the Day:
Zoomies are a beautiful expression of a dog’s joy - but in nature, they can cause unintended disruption. Areas like hedgerows, undergrowth, and open heathland often serve as vital nesting grounds for birds and homes for small mammals. Especially during breeding season (March to September), it’s important to tread lightly.
Top tip for adventurers: Keep dogs to established paths during these months to protect delicate habitats and ensure the countryside stays a haven for wildlife and wagging tails.
🐾 Countryside Games to Keep Paws on the Path
To help channel that energy (and avoid any more run-ins with unsuspecting shrubbery), try these fun, path-friendly games:
🌟 Core Trail Games
• Trail Treat Hunt: Hide healthy treats just off the main path and encourage sniffing - without straying far.
• Loose Lead Races: On-lead dashes down the path are great exercise for both of you!
• Sniffari Walks: Let your dog lead (on a long line) with plenty of time for sniffs - on the path.
• “Find It” Games: Toss a high value treat a few feet ahead and ask them to “find it!” - perfect for keeping their focus forward.
• Walking Bingo: Spot a butterfly, pass a gate, sniff a new plant - fun for dogs and humans!
🧠 Brainy Games
• Choose the Hand: Hide a treat and let them guess. Builds scent skills and focus.
• Touch and Go: Use the nose-to-hand “touch” cue to bring attention back when needed.
• Find It – Level Up: Add distance and challenge to your “find it” games using toys or scent trails.
🎾 Movement & Bonding
• Follow the Leader: Change speed or direction to keep them engaged and in sync.
• Path Pong: Call your dog back and forth between two people along the path. Great recall practice!
• The Treat Trail: Leave small treats ahead on the path as a fun breadcrumb challenge.
🐾 Calming Countryside Moments
• Sniff Spot Timeout: Scatter treats at your feet to create a chill foraging zone.
• Sit & Watch: Encourage your dog to pause and take in the world around them. It builds calmness and impulse control.
Join the Ashdown Forest Dogs Community!
Love walking, happy dogs, and discovering beautiful new routes? Come join our friendly dog-walking crew at Ashdown Forest Dogs on Facebook. Share stories, get advice, and connect with local dog lovers who enjoy the outdoors as much as you do.
Trust Pet Patrol 365 – Where Pets Come First
Whether it’s energetic forest adventures or cosy care visits, Pet Patrol 365 is here for every kind of pet personality. As a multi award-winning service, we offer trusted, tailored care including our popular Active Hound Club outings in the enchanting Ashdown Forest.
Your pet’s happiness, safety, and well-being are at the heart of everything we do.
Safe and happy walking! 🐾
Zita x
Zita Wells
Pet Patrol 365
If you found this blog post helpful, share it with your friends and family who could use these tips too! Let’s spread the love and keep our furry friends safe and happy together!