07/30/2026
Agency is an animal's ability to make choices and exert control over their environment in a way that aligns with their needs and preferences.
Giving our animals agency can help:
⭐ Increase their confidence
⭐ Improve their problem-solving skills
⭐ Reduce stress
⭐ Give greater satisfaction in their day-to-day lives
So, what changes can we make to give our pets more agency?
▶ Letting your pet choose when and how to interact with you or another human
▶ Letting your dog pick their walking path or direction
▶ Letting your pet pick their preferred resting areas
▶ Offering multiple toys or types of toys for your pet to choose from
▶ Providing multiple types of litter for your cat to choose from
"Animals express agency when they engage in voluntary and goal-directed behaviors that they are motivated to perform, which has both direct and indirect benefits.
Direct benefits—expressing agency can result in positive experiences and emotions such as joy and satisfaction.
Indirect benefits—expressing agency allows animals to choose resources (ex. food and resting areas) or activities that they enjoy." - Credit: https://insightfulanimals.substack.com/p/all-animals-need-choice-and-control