Millions of workers either could not work or worked from home during much of 2020. During that time, so many people adopted pets that some shelters had the happy problem of not having enough dogs and cats to meet demand.
Most of those pets walked out of shelters (or were purchased from breeders) and stepped into a life where they were with their humans 24/7.
But now what?
As more jobs are recalling remote workers, it’s not just the humans who are having to adjust. While the idea of having to wear pants to meetings instead of taking care of business on a ZOOM call while wearing pajama bottoms can be quite the adjustment, your new pet now must adjust, too; they have to get used to days without you.
Here are some tips to make that a little easier.
Establish Your Back to Work Routine Now
Some workplaces are still transitioning, so you may still have time to implement this tip. Starting now, keep your pet on the same routine he’ll be on when you go back to work. If going back to the office will mean a 6 a.m. walk, 7 a.m. breakfast, and a quick lunch-time potty break, start doing that now.
Routines are good for dogs, so if you can get him used to it now, it will make your first day back at the office a lot easier for him.
Get Your Pet Used to Being Alone
Much of separation anxiety can be attributed to dogs not understanding that their owners will be back. Get your pet used to being alone. By learning that you’ll return, he’ll see that being left alone is ok. If you plan to crate your dog, proper crate training should start ASAP.
If you don’t have a lot of cause to leave the house, leave him in one room and sit quietly in a room on the other side of the house. He needs to get used to not having you always by his side.
If you’re not planning on crating the dog, make sure he has a comfortable spot where he feels safe. This shouldn’t be in some never-before-used room. It should be in a place where he already feels comfortable.
Consider Dog Walkers or Doggy Daycare
Cats typically function much better during your hours away, but dogs may benefit from outside help, such as a middle-of-the-day dog walker or even a few days a week at doggy daycare. If you work close enough that coming home for lunch each day is feasible, that’s a great option. If not, a dog walker provides your pooch with a mid-day break, some human interaction, and reduces the chance of an indoor accident.
Doggy daycare is another option many pet owners embrace. Some doggy daycare centers even offer drop-off and pick-up service! If you’ll need to do the driving, look for a quality facility located near your home or office to make the process convenient. Doggy daycare doesn’t have to be an everyday thing; some pet owners send their pets two or three times a week to give them some exercise and company.
Depending on your working hours, you may be able to opt for half days at doggy daycare. Typically, a half-day is 6 hours or less and costs about 40% less than a full day.
Always check references and reviews of any dog walker or doggy daycare facility before handing over your four-legged family members.
Celebrate Each Reunion
You know that big tail wag you get from your dog upon returning home? You should pour just as much enthusiasm into the celebration! Take a few minutes to toss a ball around or give him a special treat. You’ll learn what works best for you—just let him know you’re as happy to see him as he is to see you.
Remember that your pet helped you during the lockdown by providing companionship and helping to ease anxiety and worry. Your pets now deserve your best effort to ease them comfortably into post-pandemic life.
0
0
