In today’s hyper-connected world, our screens often steal attention from the people—and pets—right in front of us. This column takes a humorous yet poignant look at how our digital habits, especially excessive screentime, impact not just our health and stress levels, but also our relationships with those who rely on us for presence and care.
Told from the perspective of a dog named Bella, this piece invites you to reflect on your own digital well-being and consider what (or who) might be missing out while you’re glued to your phone.
An Open Letter to Dog Owners
Hi, my name is Bella.
I’m a dog.
And to get straight to the point: I’ve been replaced.
Just a few years ago, I was known as man’s best friend. We ran together in the park, I got to chase sticks, we played, cuddled, and my human would pet me as we shared moments of total harmony.
But now… I’ve been downgraded to a sidekick.
All because of that black rectangle.
That black rectangle, you call it a smart phone, is like an evil wizard. It sucks all of my human’s attention into its shiny surface. I mean, sometimes we’re right there in the park, and I do my best trick (you know, the one where I roll over), and what does my human do? Stares down at their phone.
What is so important with that phone, anyway?
Sometimes my human laughs at it, sometimes looks super angry, and sometimes… well, just stares at it with blank eyes, moving their thumb up and down, forgetting that I even exist. I stand there with my puppy eyes, but no… the only thing that gets any love is the phone.
It used to be us: me and my human, the unbeatable duo. Now I’m just the one pulling on the leash while my human tries to walk and type at the same time, dodging other humans and lamp posts.
It’s time, dear humans. I know that phone seems to have some kind of magic over you, but come on—look up! Out here are real adventures, things to see, people to talk to, backs to scratch, and so much love to share, in real life, or IRL as you like to say.
I promise, the world is so much better when there isn’t a phone in the way.
So next time we go for a walk, maybe, just maybe, could you put that phone down for just a few minutes? That’s all I’m asking for.
And if I’m really good, maybe you could pick up after me too?
Your former best friend,
Bella
Did this strike a chord?
I’m sharing regularly on how technology is impacting our lives and how to find a better balance.
Check out this earlier post for a great place to start your journey toward tech-life balance, and explore my book Tech-Life Balance: 101 Ways to Thrive in a Digital World.
Taíno Bendz is the founder of Phone Free Day and his own consulting business, and his message on mindful and intentional technology usage has reached and inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world. He is a public speaker, workshop facilitator, and conducts research on digital technology usage. Taíno holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management and has spent the last 10 years working in technology sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare IT, and software automation. He currently lives in Sweden with his family. He is the author of Tech-Life Balance.
