If you have an active pet, rainy days can be plenty dull for them; not many of us want to walk in the pouring rain, nor do our pets. Here are some tips for keeping Rover and Fluffy occupied during a stretch of bad weather.
Some dogs love chewing, and it uses a lot of energy. It’s a personal choice if you let your dog have bones to chew. Some people go to a butcher and get long marrow bones, while others use yak cheese bones, bully sticks, or antlers. Should your dog be allowed to chew bones? That depends on the dog and how aggressive of a chewer he is. We are not recommending them – you know your dog and what is safe.
Both cats and dogs love a cardboard box; cats will hide in them, and dogs may destroy them. As long as they are not eating the box, let them have it. Yes, a torn-up box can make a mess, but so what? If it keeps our best friends occupied in inclement weather, it’s worth a little cleanup!
Play some indoor games. Fetch is fun for dogs and some cats. Most dogs love tug-of-war. Your cat will probably enjoy a ping pong ball (a ping pong ball is not safe for dogs). Just take a few minutes out and play a game with your pet every couple of hours.
Order some puzzle-type toys for your cat and dog and save them for a rainy day. Many people don’t realize that when our fuzzy friends use their brains, it really wears them out. These toys are fun, mentally stimulating, and they keep them out of trouble. Most pet stores, Amazon, and Chewy sell puzzle games to keep pets busy.
You can easily make a “snuffle-mat” toy by hiding treats in old towels, so Rover has to hunt to find them. Cats may enjoy an activity board from Amazon, a treat maze, or a track toy. The Kong company even makes a pocket toy for felines.
Old standbys include hide and seek, a frozen stuffed Kong, catnip toys, laser pointers, and training new tricks. These ideas will keep your pet occupied on the next rainy day. Both dogs and cats can play “find it.” Start easy; hide a treat close by while they are watching, and each time make it a little farther away. Then start hiding the treat under things!
Our pets must be monitored when they have a new bone or toy to be sure they are not getting into mischief with them. Working out ideas for indoor games ahead of time is a great idea, and you’ll never dread the weather report again.
