All of our friends across Queensland have been dealing with wet weather. Wet weather can be hard for all of us including our furry friend!
1. Take Quick Walks
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you have to skip walks entirely. If your pet is comfortable with wet weather, a short walk with a raincoat or under sheltered areas can help burn off energy. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the short breaks between downpours, go out together multiple times until your pet seems content. For dogs, even a five-minute sniffari—a slow walk where they get to sniff and explore—can be mentally enriching. Make sure to towel dry them thoroughly when you get back inside to keep them warm and comfortable.
2. Use Lick Mats and Stimulating Treats
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, and food-based activities are a fantastic way to engage your pet. Lick mats, treat-dispensing toys, or frozen food puzzles can keep them entertained for ages. Treats that engage chewing, sniffing and hunting are great to spend time and energy. Whether it's a lick mat, a chewy kangaroo disc, a jaw-working goat's ears or beef liver snapped up and hidden around, these are all great ways to engage your pet.
3. Stick to Their Routine as Much as Possible
Pets thrive on routine, and wet weather can throw things off. Try to keep meal times, play sessions, and potty breaks as close to normal as possible. If you usually have a morning walk, but it’s too wet outside, replace it with an indoor game or a longer cuddle session. Maintaining a routine helps pets feel secure, even when the weather is unpredictable.
4. Bring Out Their Favourite Toys
If the excitement and adoration of having a furry friend has faded a bit, and your pet engages in individual play, wet weather may be the time to engage in play together. Engaging your pet in interactive games is a great way to keep them entertained and strengthen your bond. Try playing hide and seek—hide somewhere in the house and call your dog’s name, letting them use their nose to find you. You can also set up an indoor obstacle course using household items like pillows and chairs. For cats, a DIY “hunting” game with treats hidden around the house can keep them busy and engaged.
5. Training Time
Rainy days are the perfect opportunity to work on basic obedience, fun tricks, or mental exercises. Short, engaging training sessions can help burn off energy and keep your pet stimulated. Try teaching them something new—like "spin," "high five," or "roll over"—or reinforce old commands with treats and positive reinforcement. Even just 5–10 minutes of training can make a big difference in keeping their minds active.
Make Rainy Days Fun!
Wet weather doesn’t have to mean boredom for your pet. By incorporating short walks, interactive food puzzles, familiar routines, fun games, and training challenges. you can keep your furry friend happy and mentally stimulated—even when the rain won’t let up.
