What is a Sensory Garden?

A sensory garden is a garden taken to the next level. It amplifies every sense — touch, taste, sound, smell, and sight — to increase your dog’s sense of play, exploration, and relaxation.

Wagtime has emerged as a pioneer in pet care by introducing the first-ever sensory garden for dogs at Kolkata (perhaps India). Located in a spacious area within the Wagtime facility away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the sensory garden aims to offer a variety of stimulating elements for dogs to explore and enjoy.

The sensory trail at the facility comprises dog friendly plants, textures, surfaces, open and shaded areas, a mud pit, interactive play equipment, water features and more.Engaging in activities within a sensory garden can improve a dog’s behaviour by providing outlets for energy, reducing restlessness, and promoting calmness through sensory enrichment.

The garden is designed with safety in mind, with secure fencing to ensure dogs remain within the designated area. Paths and surfaces are designed to be accessible and safe for dogs of all ages and mobility levels.

1. Sensory Stimulation: City dogs may experience limited exposure to natural stimuli compared to their rural counterparts. Sensory gardens provide a variety of sensory experiences such as different textures (soft grass, smooth stones), scents (herbs, flowers), and sounds (gentle water features), which enrich their daily environment.
2. Mental Stimulation: Urban environments can be monotonous for dogs, leading to boredom and potentially destructive behaviour. Engaging in a sensory garden encourages mental stimulation through exploration and interaction with novel elements, helping to keep dogs mentally sharp and satisfied.
3. Physical Exercise: Many city dogs have restricted access to open spaces where they can run and play freely. Sensory gardens often incorporate agility equipment, pathways, and open areas where dogs can exercise and maintain their physical health.
4. Stress Reduction: Urban areas can be noisy and busy, causing stress and anxiety in dogs. The calm and natural setting of a sensory garden provides a quiet retreat where dogs can relax, unwind, and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
5. Therapeutic Benefits: For city dogs dealing with anxiety or behavioural issues, a sensory garden offers therapeutic benefits. The soothing environment, natural scents, and peaceful atmosphere can help reduce anxiety levels and promote emotional well-being.
6. Connection with Nature: Many city dogs spend most of their time indoors or on concrete pavements. Sensory gardens provide a connection to nature, offering opportunities to sniff plants, feel different textures underfoot, and enjoy fresh air and sunlight.

In summary, sensory gardens play a crucial role in enriching the lives of city dogs by providing a natural, stimulating, and safe outdoor space where they can thrive despite the challenges of urban living.