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Daylight savings time with your dog

March 9, 2023by Shelby Robin

 

Daylight savings time can be a source of confusion for your dog. All of a sudden their meal times and daily routine are off by an entire hour. Here are a few steps you can do to help make the transition seamless and stress free for you and your dog.

 

  1. Gradually adjust your dog’s schedule
    One way to ease your dog into the time change is to gradually adjust each aspect of their schedule by 10-15 minutes per day in the week leading up to Daylight Saving Time. This can help your dog adjust to the new schedule without causing too much disruption to their routine.
  2. Pay attention to meal times
    Dogs are creatures of habit, and meal times are an important part of their routine. As the clocks change, it’s important to adjust your dog’s meal times accordingly. Make sure your dog is fed at the same time each day, but adjust the clock to match the new time. This can help your dog maintain a consistent schedule and keep them from fussing for their “late” meal for an entire hour.
  3. Plan for exercise
    Exercise is an important part of your dog’s routine, and it’s important to make sure they get enough physical activity even as the schedule changes. Consider changing the timing of your walks or adjusting the length of your daily exercise routine to accommodate the new schedule, and take advantage of the longer days and later sunsets to extend your walks to new times.
  4. Make sure your dog is visible
    As the time of sunrise and sunset changes, it’s important to make sure your dog is visible when outside. Consider using reflective clothing or accessories, and use a leash to keep your dog safe and prevent them from running off in the dark. If you walk your dog in the early morning or evening, use a light to make sure you can see where you’re going and to make yourself visible to vehicles.
  5. Keep your dog calm
    For sensitive dogs, changes in routine can cause anxiety or stress. As you adjust to Daylight Saving Time, make sure to pay attention to your dog’s behavior and mood. If you notice any signs of anxiety, such as panting, restlessness, or pacing, try to keep your dog calm with soothing music, a comfortable bed, or a calming scent. Spend a little extra time with them and do an activity you both enjoy in order to reassure them that the change of season is nothing to worry about.

 

As we head into spring, keep an eye on your dog in the changing temperature. Dogs that love the cold may need more time to acclimate to warmer weather, and need to have their exercise routine supervised to ensure they are adapting to the new temperatures. As the weather gets warmer, remember that dogs cannot be left alone in the car in the warm weather- even 70 degree weather can turn a car into a 100 degree oven after only a few minutes.
This is also the time of year that seasonal allergies may appear. If you notice your dog struggling with new runny or itchy eyes or itchy skin, check with your vet to see if they may be dealing with allergies. Super Snouts Super Shrooms powder can help address the weepy eyes from common environmental allergens. Adding a source of Omega 3s and 6s such as Grizzly’s Salmon Oil can also help add moisture to your pet’s skin and coat.

 

Daylight Saving Time can be a challenging time for dogs and their owners, but with a little preparation, you can help your furry friend adjust to the new schedule. From gradually adjusting your dog’s routine to making sure they are visible and calm, these tips can help you and your dog make the most of the time change. Remember to be patient and attentive to your dog’s needs, and you and your pet can enjoy a smooth transition to the new schedule.

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994 Grafton St. Worcester, MA 01604
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