Keep Them Entertained During the Cold
Here in Southern Ontario, we have seen record low temperatures and snowfalls this winter, and you know what that means: most of our pets have had much more limited time outside to run off excess energy, patrol their property, sniff out all the messages left on the olfactory cat and dog messaging system, or keep an eye on the comings and goings of local gangs of squirrels and blue jays. In short, they are bored.
Boredom in your pet might not be as obvious as boredom in your kids – they don’t loll around the house, draped - seemingly boneless – on the couch, moaning about having nothing to do or no one to talk to. Instead, animals can begin exhibiting unwanted behaviours including those destructive to both their environment and themselves. Destructive chewing or digging, excessive barking or whining, restlessness, pawing at you, pacing, or even disinterest in their regular toys or food can mean your dog is bored to distraction. Cats tend toward scratching furniture, yowling and prowling, and sometimes even excessive grooming, occasionally leading to hair loss. Both cats and dogs can have drastic changes in energy levels, too. One minute they’re so lethargic they can’t lift their heads. The next, it’s a case of zoomies so intense the whole family is running for cover.
Sometimes we might feel that our animal’s behaviour means that they are anxious or ill, but in many cases, they are simply not being adequately stimulated, either mentally or physically. This is where some great indoor enrichment activities can really help everyone. By providing an activity that lets our pet search, strategize, exercise and play we help them learn new skills they’re hard-wired to use, alleviate boredom, and we possibly save thousands in spending on new furniture and home décor.
Ideally, of course, you spend time with your pet every day, walking, running, hiking, and playing. Dogs love to fetch – throwing a ball or frisbee is about as basic as it gets! When it’s 30 below outside, though, indoor activities like tug-of-war, hide and seek, and even small agility courses can provide lots of stimulation. Cats love to chase a wad of rolled up paper, anything tied on the end of a string, and will delight their minders no end by fruitlessly chasing a red laser pointer light.
Pet Grocer owner, Jenn Newark, loves scent games, perch work, and shaping, all of which are easily done indoors. Hiding treats and trainers around the house and letting your dog or cat sniff them out like they’re trying out for the K9 Police unit is a terrific start. From there, you can move on to snuffle balls and mats.
Eventually your pet will be ready for puzzles. Offered in different skill levels, treat dispensing puzzles provide intense stimulation and reward, and keep your pet occupied. Pet Grocer has developed a puzzle lending library so you can try them out and keep offering new variety! Cats love puzzles too, though of course they will give you attitude for making them sing for their supper.
An incredibly easy enrichment activity is providing meals and treats that can’t be instantly gobbled down. Put some of their food in a bowl, add a little water and freeze it. Your pet will have to take its time getting to the food as it thaws. Lick mats are another great source of enrichment either at meal time, or as a distraction during slightly stressful periods, like nail trimming or grooming. We found a great new product called Pupsicles that allow for endless treat possibilities, frozen or dried. And it’s easy to clean, long-lasting, safer than bones, and will keep your dog busy for quite a while.
There are plenty of games to play and activities to do with your dogs and cats to enrich their lives and keep them feeling sharp, as well as to deepen the bond between you. A quick internet search for “dog training games” or “enrichment activities for dogs and cats” will return literally thousands of ideas. Learn about perch work, shaping, and many more ways to give your pet the enjoyment of learning and doing a job. You’ll gain appropriate behaviour and strengthen your relationship with your pet, too. What more could anyone want?
