'Nap time' pilot program for dogs launches at Dartmouth SPCA

SPCA launches Operation Hit Snooze The Nova Scotia SPCA's chill new pilot project Operation Hit Snooze aims to reduce stress and increase placements for shelter dogs.

A new pilot program is launching at the Dartmouth SPCA in Dartmouth, N.S., that will allow dogs to have a "nap time" each day.

"Operation Hit Snooze" will be between 11 a.m. and noon each day. During that time, lights in dog rooms will be dimmed and music or an audiobook will play, providing a restful space for the dogs.

“Research has shown that shelter dogs who get rest during the day become better suited to their environment. The day rest (nap time) helps the dogs display signs of calmer behaviour, making meeting potential adopters a more positive experience for all,” says Sandra Flemming, chief of Capital Planning & Shelter Operations Advisor.

Dr. Mike Ackerley, a veterinarian at Tartan Tails Veterinary Hospital, says dogs should sleep 12 to 14 hours a day on average. However, he says that depends on several factors like age, breed and overall health.

Ackerley says puppies and senior dogs often reach 18 hours of sleep a day.

"Sleep benefits dogs in many ways including physical health by allowing muscles time to recover from activity, mental rest, helping to consolidate memories and refresh cognitive functions,” says Ackerley. “Well-rested dogs are more alert and responsive, their immune system gets a boost, and like humans, helps their mood regulation.”

Staff at the Dartmouth shelter will monitor the pilot program and make any changes needed before it’s rolled out to all shelters provincewide.

"The Nova Scotia SPCA appreciates potential adopters' excitement about meeting a dog and everyone's patience in respecting this downtime during open hours," reads a news release from Nova Scotia SPCA.

The Nova Scotia SPCA says it helped approximately 16,000 pets last year through animal rescue, progressive programs and rehoming opportunities.

For more Nova Scotia news visit our dedicated provincial page.