The condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is well documented in humans, but what about dogs? SAD is defined as a form of depression related to the lack of exposure to sunlight. Unfortunately, SAD can negatively affect both the physical and emotional well-being of your dog.
Pet owners may notice a change in their dog’s mood or behavior when they are not being exposed to as much sunlight as normal. For example, dog owners may notice their dog sleeping more, lacking energy, or demanding extra attention in the winter months when the days are shorter.
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Sunlight also affects the hormones melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin regulates sleep cycles. It is produced by a gland in the brain that is light-sensitive, so the production of the hormone is actually inhibited when the animal isn’t exposed to sunlight.
When sunlight exposure is limited, melatonin production decreases and the animal will be overcome with feelings of lethargy and sleepiness. Serotonin is also produced by the exposure to sunlight. Low levels of this hormone can result in aggressive behavior and increased anxiety.
A new product has been created to help pets who may suffer from SAD. After a bought of insomnia, Max Marvin was prescribed a light box by his doctor. His dog, Luke, ended up basking in the light that the box provided more than Max did. He realized that animals need sunlight just as much as people do.
After extensive research, he decided to create a device to curb SAD symptoms in pets. He founded the company Pawsitive Lighting and developed the Sol Box. It is the first light therapy box that is made specifically for pets.
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Lux is a unit that is used to measure the intensity of light, and the Sol Box provides 10,000 lux of light. This amount of light represents the best average of the intensity of sunlight that is delivered on an average sunny day.
In order to obtain the maximum benefits of the light, pets should be encouraged to lie under the light for 30 minutes every day. Since it has a sleek design and is easily moved, it is simple for pet owners to place the Sol Box near their pet while they are resting in a quiet place.
The product doesn’t produce any heat, so there are no safety dangers involved with it being too close to your pet or any bedding material. Another great benefit of the Sol Box is that it is not only great for your pet, but it can be beneficial to you as well.
