S A D
Doreen Potter 
Does your dogs mood change with the weather
The nights are drawing in, and the weather is depressing.
I as one cannot wait until spring, and the clocks haven't even gone back yet
S. A. D
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Did you know that SAD affects one in three UK residents each winter when our melatonin levels increase and serotonin decreases.
I have just been reading that "According to a study by the UK’s leading vet charity, People’s Dispensary of Sick Animals (PDSA), one-third of dog owners noticed a similar downturn in their pet’s mood during the colder months".
Would you know if your dog suffers from SAD ?
Well dogs do have similar emotions to humans, Studies have shown that humans share a lot of the same brain chemistry with dogs, so it’s no surprise that our pets may also experience the chemical imbalance that causes SAD.
They feel
- Fear
- Joy
- Sadness
- Frustration
- Loneliness
- Anxiety
- Relaxation/calmness
- Anticipation
- Love/attachment
- Surprise
- Depression
Just like humans.
They can also pick up on your mood too.
- Signs of S.A.D could be
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Withdrawing from the family
- More restless
- Change in other behaviours
- More grumpy/ less tolerant
Please know that these symptoms could also be due to a medical reason, so please see your vet if you are concerned.
Have you noticed any signs that your dogs may also be affected by the winter blues?
I would love to here your thoughts.
Categories: : Dog Training