• Withdrawn – the dog may have little enthusiasm for exercise, games, or doing things they usually enjoy

• Lethargic – they may be sleeping more than usual

• Aggressive behavior or soiling inappropriately

• Demanding more attention 

• Frequent barking 

• Loss of appetite – they may lose interest in food, or there may be other changes to eating patterns

• Inability to settle – the dog may appear restless, not sleeping well or deeply, or other changes to sleeping patterns

• Increased shedding, loss of fur, or over-grooming

 

Pets mirror our moods so if you are having a bad, try to do something productive or positive to help you and your pup!  According to Steve Dale, a certified animal behavior consultant, here are a few ways to do just that:

 

 

*Improve Your Indoor Lighting

Dale suggests ensuring your cat’s or dog’s bed is situated near a sunny-side window. This is especially important for animals, such as indoor cats, who are unable to go outside.  An increase in the amount of light entering your home means more light entering your pet’s pupils, which positively affects brain chemistry.

Use full spectrum lighting for both you and your animals during the months when natural sunlight is decreased, and you can’t get outside as much as you’d like.

 

 

Light boxes designed for people with SAD might also help pets with similar symptoms.

*Get Outdoors

Venturing outside is not only good for you, but for your companion, as well. It gives animals opportunities to move, ground themselves, and improve circulation. A side benefit is that your dog will get exposure to natural sunlight and be able to socialize with other dogs and people.

*Keep Them Engaged Indoors

There are several things you can do to enrich your pet’s indoor environment. With cats, Dale says you can promote their foraging instincts by placing food devices around the home, instead of bowl feeding them. Or try placing cat toys around the house horizontally and vertically, as well as rotating enriching toys and games.

With dogs, he says you can try something as simple as putting some kibble inside a plastic container. Your dog may enjoy the challenge of watching the kibble bounce, then empty from the container.

Making time to interact with your companion on a daily basis inside the home is essential to their wellbeing. If you need to be away from home for extended periods, letting them have access to a window can be beneficial.