Winter Blues? Helpful Tips for Pet Parents to keep Pets Happy During Long Winter Days

Winter Blues is the term used to describe how many people feel when they are stuck indoors due to cold weather conditions in their environments. Winter Blues is also a feeling that many pets deal with, and many times it can go unnoticed, especially with new pet owners.

Pet owners who ignore their pets’ symptoms of winter blues and need for winter stimulation will find their companions gaining weight, becoming irritable and sleeping too much and sometime having "accidents".Have No fear there are solutions and simple steps that you can take that will make the long cold months a happier environment for you pet. 

Lighten Up! Seriously Brighten the lights.

Dogs and cats respond to lighting like we do: they get peppier when the light is brighter. So even if it’s too cold to go out, open drapes and let in any sunlight there is, turn up indoor lights, and even replace bulbs to create a more day like environment. We Suggest setting (multiple if possible) lamps on timers for those who are not home before the earlier sunsets. If you are a late night worker or get in later then normal, from time to time,  set a radio  or television to go on that is also a great way to make your pets wake up from their 12 hours of boredom.
 For reptiles, keep heat and light cycles balanced throughout the entire year. Know the general husbandry standards for your specific reptile so that you are aware of possible hibernation needs during the winter, as well.

Make time to Play

Slim Cat Treat/Food Ball 

Cats  and Dogs love to play, and the best place to play when it  is cold is in the house.  Cats are complex creatures but like some of the most simple toys. Paper bags and simple Cardboard boxes many times do the trick. You can also drag enticing objects around, get your cat chasing clumped paper — anything to keep him busy and burning energy. Install a window perch because cats love to sit by the window and watch the birds. It’s free entertainment and can keep them busy for a while.

For dogs, games like tug-of-war and wrestling can mean a great workout while building their appetite. Interactive toys like: Chase It Tug Toys and  Board Games are fun too.

Flip N Toss Carrot

 The best time to play with Rabbits is in the early morning or as it begins to get dark. Fun Interactive toys for Small pets to play with are also great chew treats. 

Eggcersiser for Cats/Small Dogs

Recalculate food Quantities.

If your dog or cat is not outdoors very much, he or she doesn’t need to eat as much. Less food means less weight gain and more energy. If your dog is outdoors with an appropriate dog house, he may need extra calories to stay warm. I personally love treat balls for dry foods. There are several great options for all size Dogs and Cats.  That  not only get Pets Moving but also serves their meal.
 Shop Interactive Toys and Treat Balls

Enhance scents around the house.

Scented goodies keep dogs busy as they try to find the source of the smell.  Cats like toys with catnip or may rather fill their time with a scratching post.  Do not use sprays or candles — scented or otherwise — if you have birds, since sprays and candles emit carbons and volatile toxins that can be harmful, or even fatal, to birds if inhaled.

Go outside.

Even if your cat roams freely, you might not want him to do this in the winter. So to get a cat outdoors and under control, spend a few weeks training him to walk on a leash.

Dogs would welcome romping in the snow and can do this using a long retractable leash. If coyotes live in your area, however, it is not recommended that you walk your dog on a retractable leash.
 Coyotes have been known to target and attack dogs on longer leashes.

To find the right indoor toys that will occupy your pet on a cold afternoon as well as pet bedding, houses and accessories, visit our retail site www.PetFoodNetwork.com for more great winter item ideas.

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All the Best!!