Dogs chase away the January blues

As the post-festive buzz wears off, the cold weather and short, dark days can leave many of us feeling blue – but our four legged friends still need their walks, fresh air, and exercise.

PDSA Vet Nurse, Nina Downing, said: “As our busy routines resume after the festive break, we know that it can be tempting to stay in and hibernate in the warmth when we get the chance, but it’s vital that we get outside with our dogs and, if it’s during daylight hours, all the better.”

Christmas is such a fun time, family members coming and going, long wintery walks with more time on our hands, and time to spend playing with our dogs.

Come January, things go back to ‘normal’; we all return to work and family visits are less frequent but it’s important not to forget to make time for your furry family member.

Company
Leaving your pooch home alone for more than four hours per day can cause feelings of loneliness, frustration, and misery so, as you return to your normal routine, remember to factor in your dogs’ fun time too.

If you are going to be out of the house for longer than four hours, could you arrange for a friend, neighbour, or dog walker to go and see your furry friend?

Or maybe consider booking them into a doggy day care.

Daily walks
Not getting enough exercise can cause health problems, such as obesity, but can also lead to long-term behavioural problems.

Bored dogs are really unhappy dogs – they can show their frustration by chewing, barking, toileting in the house, being destructive, and over-grooming themselves (licking too much).

Dogs need daily outdoor exercise to ensure good physical and mental health.

Worryingly, our 2022 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report found 45 per cent of owners have concerns about dog walking!

Fun, fresh air, running, and jumping can’t be underestimated, our pets need this, and probably many of us could take a leaf out of their book too!

Home environment
As the new year begins, it’s a good opportunity to remind ourselves that the animals in our lives need to have their five welfare needs met.

Their environment, is just one of these needs. They need a home that’s comfortable, where they can rest and feel safe.

Dogs love to get outside in the fresh air for their daily exercise but they also love a cosy, warm home to snuggle up in.

Make sure their bed is in a warm spot away from any drafts with plenty of thick bedding as the January chills make an appearance.

They may also choose to hop up next to you for a cuddle and a fuss.