How Lighting Can Affect Your Pet
How many times do you kiss your pet goodbye, turn off the lights and leave your loyal friend in a dimly lit environment?
Think twice; there is more you can do to keep your pet happy and healthy, even when you are not spending time with him or her.
Humans, as well as their pets, need their daily dosages of illumination to maintain emotional, physical and mental well-being.
Getting enough light is especially difficult in the winter months, where days are shorter and our exposure to bright sunlight is limited.
According to a survey by leading veterinary charity PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals), as many as one in three dog owners see a considerable downturn in their pets’ moods during winter months. One in three cat owners also stated that their pet seems “sadder” and less playful during winter.*
Just as an improper diet of foods may cause malnutrition, an improper “light diet” may cause ‘mal-illumination,’ according to the late photobiologist John Ott.
Ott’s work into the effects of natural and artificial light on plants, animals, and humans dates back to 1929. His experiments lend proof to the theory that full-spectrum lighting is an essential element and must be included in sufficient amounts as part of the body’s nutritional needs.**
We have the technology to control our illumination and maintain a healthier indoor environment, not only for ourselves, but also for our beloved and faithful friends. The day-and-light cycle or “photoperiod” keeps our bodily rhythms in tune, and our pets may be even more sensitive to disruptions in this cycle.
While natural sunlight is best for the synthesis of vitamin D and calcium, full-spectrum light bulbs help to replicate the UV wavelength of natural sunlight to aid in restorative physical and mental health benefits.
Surround your beloved furry or scaled friend with the right illumination…
5 Wise Ways to Get your Pet to See the Light
- Invest in good quality lamps and light sources to provide comfortable illumination during the daytime. LED bulbs are a safe choice because they contain no mercury, stay relatively cool when in use and are the most energy-efficient.
- When you must leave your pet for an extended period of time, use dimming controls and automated timers to mimic natural sunrise and sunset cycles.
- Invest in sturdy lamps and keep electrical cords neatly stowed.
- Get your pet outdoors for at least an hour every day, if possible. Or give them access to natural sunlight near a window.
- Keep your pet’s sleeping quarters clean and free from dust and debris. Keep cleaning products and dangerous chemicals stowed away.
NOTE: Certain amphibious pets may require UVB, UVA and/or full spectrum illumination. Consult your veterinarian for specific lighting needs.
How essential the right lighting is to maintaining the emotional and physical well being of our beloved pets! Energy-efficient lighting systems make it is easy to surround them with the illumination they need.
Of course, nothing beats a day at the beach, some fresh air and real sunshine! So show your pets the love and environ them with the best of light.
How are you going to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year? Maybe a little surprise is in store for your very best friend!
“Lucky” pet bed from Uttermost
See what a big difference a little light can make.
Visit a Capitol Lighting showroom to find Valentine’s Day specials for your loved ones and check out these animal-inspired designs at 1800lighting.com.
Joan Silver, content manager for Capitol Lighting’s customer blog, has been active in the lighting industry for over 30 years. Go to 1800lighting.com to learn more about how the right light can enhance your environment, and find the best light fixtures and accessories to beautify your residential or commercial space.