It’s not just people who feel the change of seasons – our furry friends are right there with us, navigating the shifts in weather and daylight. These seasonal shifts can affect their routines and well-being so it’s important that we help ease the transition to keep our beloved companions happy. 

Adjusting feeding and sleeping schedules 

The internal clocks of our animal friends can be thrown out of whack with the shifting hours of sunlight. Just like us, they might need a bit of time to adapt to the new rhythm of the day. You can try adjusting their feeding and sleeping schedules gradually to align with the changing daylight.  

Outdoor exploration and new stimuli 

With longer days come more opportunities for outdoor adventures! Your furry friend might find themselves introduced to a whole new world of stimuli – from intriguing scents to fellow critters frolicking in the sunshine. While this can be an exciting time, it’s essential to keep an eye on them, especially if they’re being introduced to a new outdoor environment. If your little companion is easily stimulated, you may want to introduce them to the new setting gradually and in short increments, so they don’t get overwhelmed. 

Protecting against potential dangers 

With the bloom of spring flowers and the lush greenery of summer come a lot of potential dangers hiding in your garden or neighborhood park. Some plants can be toxic to our furry friends, so it’s crucial to know what’s growing in your pet’s stomping grounds and keep them away from anything that could spell trouble.  

Check out our blog on Poisonous Plants and Flowers to know what to look out for. 

The other important thing to consider with the changing season is vaccinations! Ensuring your companion animal is up to date on their vaccinations is critical to safeguard against diseases prevalent during the warmer months.  

Let’s not forget about those tiny terrors: fleas and ticks. As the temperature rises, these critters come out to play, ready to hitch a ride on your furry friend and set up camp in their cozy fur. Regular grooming and preventative measures like flea and tick treatments are a must to keep your pet itch-free and healthy all season long. 

It’s important to stay attuned to the ways in which seasonal shifts can impact our furry companions. By staying informed, proactive, and attentive to their needs, we can ensure that our animals thrive in every season, enjoying the delights of outdoor exploration while staying safe and healthy. With a little vigilance and a whole lot of love, you and your furry companion can weather any season together. 

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. 

 

 

The post Seasonal shifts: How they can have an impact your furry friend appeared first on Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.

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