Introduction
The question of whether to leave the television on for your pets has sparked much debate among pet owners. While some see it as a way to keep their pets entertained and mentally stimulated, others are wary of the potential for disruptive behavior. In this article, we'll explore the topic through the experiences of two passionate pet owners - one who had a Congo African Grey Parrot and another who cares for a German Shepherd named Harley Quinn. We'll delve into what shows and movies work best for their furry friends and offer some insights that might help you decide if leaving the TV on is the right choice for your pets.
About Congo African Grey Parrot
When my Congo African Grey Parrot first came into my life, his vocal abilities were still developing. However, my bird quickly became a master mimic of sounds he found interesting. From the sound of a landline phone ringing to the microwave buzzer, my parrot was quite entertaining. One day, as I needed to run a quick errand to the grocery store, I decided to leave the television on for company. My parrot, who was listening to The Cartoon Network at the time, soon started mimicking cartoon noises. This unexpected and amusing experience taught me a valuable lesson: not all shows or movies are suitable for pets, especially those that are loud or fast-paced.
Leaving the TV On for Harley Quinn
Harley Quinn, my German Shepherd, is a dynamic and energetic dog. She becomes bored when the cat goes and hides, and she gets bored even faster with her toys, which number around 30 or 40. She finds great entertainment in bursting into the bathroom when someone is in there, just to hear them yell. When no one is home, her boredom often turns into a destructive mood. After extensive trial and error, I've discovered which channels and types of content work best for Harley.
Avoid Game Show TV
I found that leaving the TV on for Harley to watch Game Show TV is problematic. The excited yells and loud music from these shows tend to get her worked up and can lead to destructive behavior. Western movies with whoops and gunshots also typically result in her causing damage. On the other hand, Harley dislikes talk shows, reality shows, and anything political. I suspect this might be because I share her distaste for such programs.
Old Movies Are a Hit
One of Harley's favorite types of content is old movies, particularly those featuring famous actresses. Joan Crawford is her all-time favorite. Strangely, we both can't seem to agree on this particular movie star, as I firmly believe Bette Davis was the best actress ever. Old movies provide a calming and entertaining entertainment option for Harley, keeping her mind engaged and her energy satisfied.
The Bottom Line
Deciding whether to leave the TV on for your pets is a personal choice that depends on the individual animal and the type of content. While Congo African Grey Parrot thrived on The Cartoon Network, Harley Quinn found old movies and Joan Crawford to be the perfect distractions. It's important to observe your pet's reactions to different types of shows and movies, as what works for one pet might not work for another. Always ensure the content is appropriate and considerate of your pet's behavior and temperament.
Conclusion
Leaving the TV on for your pets can be a beneficial way to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated, but it's crucial to choose the right content. For a Congo African Grey Parrot or a German Shepherd, the right movies and shows can provide the perfect distraction. Remember, always consider your pet's individual needs and preferences when making these decisions. Happy viewing - and happy co-existing!