Preparing Your Pet for Daylight Saving Time

Helping Your Pet Adjust to the Time Change

Daylight Savings time is coming up on Sunday, March 8th, and while that may mean a simple change of the clocks for us, it can be a puzzling time for our pets. Animals rely on their circadian rhythm, which works like an internal clock, for their daily routines. The sudden altered hour for meals, walks, and sleep can feel disruptive.

To combat this, it’s best to gently introduce this switch in the days leading up to Daylight Savings Time. Here are a few tips to prepare:

Gradually alter mealtimes. About a week before the clocks change, start feeding your pet a few minutes earlier than their usual time. Increase this push a little bit more each day until their meal time is changed to the new hour.

Slowly shift walks, playtime, and potty breaks. This helps avoid any accidents indoors and helps your pet adapt to the new schedule.

Use natural light to help pets keep their routine. Animals respond to natural signals in time, like the sun rising and setting. Year-round, open the curtains and let some sunlight in during the mornings to signal it’s time to wake up and be active, and keep things dim and cozy in the evening to let your pet know it’s time to wind down.

Your furry friend may take a few days to adjust, but with patience and preparation, springing forward can feel effortless.