Mark your calendars! In 2024, daylight saving time ends on November 3rd. While we’ll gain an extra hour of sleep, our pets’ internal clocks don’t adjust quite as swiftly. As creatures of habit, they rely on routine for feeding, bathroom breaks, and playtime.

To ease your furry friend’s transition this year, here are five crucial steps you can take before the clocks “fall back.”

1. Gradually Adjust Feeding and Medication Schedules

If your pet is on a strict feeding or medication schedule, start adjusting their routine by 10 to 15 minutes each day. This gradual change ensures that they receive their meals and medications at the expected times, minimizing stress and preventing unwanted behaviors, such as chewing or searching the trash for leftovers.

2. Modify Bathroom Breaks

Pets, especially dogs, thrive on routine, puppies undergoing training and senior dogs.  Start waking up a bit earlier to shift their bathroom breaks progressively. This change helps them adapt smoothly and prevents accidents indoors, crucial for new puppies or pets sensitive to schedule changes.

3. Equip Yourself for Dark Walks

With shorter daylight hours, ensure you and your pet are visible during early morning and evening walks. Invest in a reflective dog leash and a vest for yourself, and consider attaching a small, flashing light to your pet’s collar for extra visibility.

4. Use a Secure Five or Six-Foot Leash

Avoid using Flexi or extendable leashes, especially in the dark. A secure five or six-foot leash keeps your pet close and under control, which is vital if they are startled by something hidden in the shadows.

5. Replace Batteries in Safety Devices

Take this time change as a cue to check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Replace their batteries, and don’t forget to check electronic locks if applicable. These simple steps ensure safety and peace of mind during the cozy winter evenings.

By taking these proactive measures, you’ll help ease the transition for your pet during the 2024 daylight saving time change. Enjoy that extra hour of sleep, knowing your pet is comfortable and well-adjusted.

If you need any help with dog walking during the winter months, or are planning a vacation.  Contact York Professional Pet Sitting to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy. Our experienced team is ready to assist with personalized pet care services.

Morag Willcox

Morag is the owner and founder of York Regions most trusted premier in-home pet care and dog walking companies. In 2000 she saw a need for an alternative to kennels, catteries for family pets in the area and has always believed that pets are much happier and less stressed staying in their own familiar environment. Morag and her team are all certified in Pet 1st Aid and CPR, she also offers continuous training to her team members through online and hands on pet care and pet behaviour and care courses. Morag has earned her certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Professional Dog Walking and Canine Attendant training. She has lived in the Newmarket/Aurora area since 1991 is a wife, a mother of 2 adult children and a grandmother of 2 delightful little balls of energy. She has also been owned by fish, birds, mice, rats, cats, dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs and is an advocate for all living creatures. In her spare time she likes to be involved in her community and events travelling, reading and cooking.