When the weather becomes cold and wet, it’s easy for owners to stop or reduce their dog’s walks. But if you do this, you run the risk of your typically placid pet becoming destructive out of boredom or escaping the back yard.
At The Lost Dogs’ Home we see the results of both: the stray or lost dog who’s terrified at being in unfamiliar surrounds and is miserable, wet and cold after time on the streets, or the surrendered dog, whose behaviour has become too much for the owner.
By providing Buster with exercise and mental stimulation, you can prevent unwanted behaviour. Remember:
- Regular exercise keeps your dog’s body in good working order, particularly joints, muscles and heart.
- Mental stimulation – sights and smells will help keep your dog’s mind sharp.
- Socialisation – without constant socialisation, dogs can lose confidence and become less interactive with other dogs, leading to problems including aggression.
- Weight control – it is estimated that up to 50% of dogs are overweight, which can lead to serious health problems.
Follow these top winter tips from the Home’s Dr Matt Pascall to keep your best mate happy and healthy:
- Indoor exercise: raining and windy outside? Take your play time inside. Games of hide and seek with dog treats or even training your dog to walk on the treadmill will keep Buster active and lessen any boredom.
- Doggy day care: a very popular option for dog owners these days, doggy day care centres are a great way for your dog to beat boredom, make new doggy friends and have a great day out (indoors!). Your local vet or pet supply store may be able to recommend a centre nearby.
- Dog agility classes: a fun way for you and your dog to get fit, learn new tricks and meet new friends. Planet K9 runs a number of obedience and agility classes around Melbourne.
- Toys and treats: variety is the spice of life and this goes for dogs too. Adding a new squeaky toy or rope toy can add excitement to your dog’s everyday life and keep them busy. Kong toys, filled with food, provide hours of entertainment.
- Warm environment: dogs feel the cold too – particularly the very young and elderly. Ensure your dog has plenty of warm bedding, adequate shelter and a coat.
The Lost Dogs’ Home at North Melbourne will give away a free ‘Get Fit With A Dog’ t-shirt with every dog or puppy adopted this winter.
All dogs and pups have been desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed, heartworm tested and receive a free post-adoption Planet K9 training session. View dogs for adoption.
