DOGS AND THE CHANGING SEASONS

Summer is coming to a close and the fall season is fast approaching. While this is a beautiful time of year with more moderate temperatures, children back to school, and leaves changing colours, it can also be a difficult time of year for our four legged friends.

During the long, hot days of summer our pups have no doubt been spending much more time outdoors. Perhaps they have been travelling or spending time at a cottage or resort with lots of water to swim in and other activities to keep them busy and amused.

But all good things must end and your pup is no doubt going to feel a little depressed. Vacation time is ending, parents are going back to work and the kids are leaving for school and probably spending more time with their friends which leaves the pup alone for a much longer period of time. So what’s the best way to deal with this issue?

If your pup got used to having lots of people around during the summer months and had lots of time to spend outdoors, don’t just suddenly change that routine. September and October are generally beautiful months, with the days getting shorter and the temperatures moderating to a comfortable level. Your pup will certainly welcome being out on a sunny fall day.

As the temperatures start to drop, the leaves will also start to change colour and fall. What better time to get out with your four legged friend for a long walk in the park, a hike in the country, or just running and playing in a big pile of leaves. Just remember, even though the air may be cooler, you should still carry sufficient water to offer your pup a drink periodically during your time out. You should also have a few treats on hand as a reward when he behaves himself while away from home.

As the seasons change, there may be days where the conditions are less than ideal for a getaway outdoors. But don’t let that put a damper on your pup enjoying good, quality time with you. You can always play games indoors such as hide and seek or practice your basic commands of sit and stay, or recalls. This will not only be beneficial to refresh your pup’s mind, but will also stimulate his mind and make him think. He may be having fun but he will also be practicing basic commands and skills he has learned and ultimately tire himself out.

So, let’s enjoy the beauty of the next season and try to keep your pup happy and amused by spending time with him, rather than just assuming he’ll be alright on his own. Don’t forget, a lonely bored pup can quickly become a destructive pup.