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How to Keep Your Pet From Going Stir Crazy

Winter days can seem like they drag on and on. And in this day in age with quarantining and Covid restrictions for social distancing, a lot of us have been inside a lot more with our pets, and being stuck indoors can drive anyone squirrelly after so long and our pets are no exception.

Sara Forsberg · February 02, 2021

How to Keep Your Pet From Going Stir Crazy

Winter days can seem like they drag on and on. And in this day in age with quarantining and Covid restrictions for social distancing, a lot of us have been inside a lot more with our pets, and being stuck indoors can drive anyone squirrelly after so long and our pets are no exception. They can go stir crazy just like us!

Here are some tips to combat boredom:

  • Walks! As hard as it may get out and bundle up and get outside, it will do both you and your pet good! Gear up your four legged friend by using protectant wax or booties to protect their tender pads from snow and ice, and the salt and chemicals on roads and sidewalks.
  • If you have local dog parks that are open, utilize those.  If you have more than one dog park in your area, rotate them for something new. Your pup will benefit from the fresh air and play and even more importantly socializing with other dogs! Just remember to be respectful of social distancing.
  • While indoors, open your blinds or other window treatments to allow in as much sunlight as possible. This helps to balance the body’s natural rhythm and aids in preventing symptoms of seasonal blues or depression. Letting  have access to a window can be beneficial, allowing them to watch nature, people or even cars/ trucks driving by.
  • If your dog likes to play fetch and you have a long hallway or stairs you can throw a ball for them to bring back and retrieve. We do that all the time with our dog, Jax!
  • Play hide and seek inside. Hide some treats around your home and let your four legged companion sniff them out. This is something that will keep them active and engaged.
  • Rotate and alternate toys. Put your pet’s toys out of his sight and only introduce a few at a time.
  • Work on some simple obedience training or new tricks. Even once a day can help teach your dog new tricks and burns lots of mental energy.
  • Try a change of scenery indoors.  If your pet tends to follow you around during the day, changing rooms can alleviate boredom for your pet.  As much as possible sing and talk to your pet. They love hearing your voice and this can help relieve anxiety.

These are unusual and trying times for all of us, including our pets; and the cold winter days makes a lot of us want to snuggle with our furry friends, hole up, stay in and just binge watch Netflix. However, be aware and keep an eye out for changes in your pet’s behavior. It’s worth it during these winter days and months of shutdowns to put in the extra effort to keep your beloved companion active, happy and healthy.

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Sara Forsberg

Sara Forsberg

Sara has been part of the BARF team since 2019. She is responsible for some admin duties, helping keep the office running smoothly and support for Rob Jr. and the rest of the team. She has been passionate about animals since a small child growing up with a Siberian Husky and 3 cats, and as an adult having a Labrador Retriever that suffered from a lot of allergy problems. She now has a rescue orphaned kitten, Poppy, and a new addition in another Lab named Jax. She has 7 children that keep her busy in most of her spare time; but enjoys anything on or near the water, spending time with friends and family, music, reading and cooking.

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What is BARF?

“BARF®” is our acronym which means “Biologically Appropriate Raw Food.” All of our diets are Complete and carefully Balanced; a proprietary blend of muscle meat, organs, bone-connector tissue, finely ground bone, fruits, veggies, vitamins and minerals. It’s the diet nature intended for our pets to not just survive but thrive.