Bark to the Office/School
During this past year, many happy pups and adorable kitties found their forever homes with loving families that could give them all their love and attention. However, for many pets post pandemic life is going to look very different. They will be going from spending all of their time with their human to being apart for 8 plus hours a day. It seems unimaginable to be apart from them and it leaves many families wondering how their pet is going to react to this new way of life. Not to worry! Ren’s is here to help you make a smooth transition for your pet to ensure they are living their best life.
Preparing Your Dog
Create a New Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit and your sudden departure from the home could cause them some anxiety. You may not realize it but you are currently in a routine with your dog, and that routine consists of you always being home. So it is important to create a new routine based on your new work schedule. If you are returning to the office, even if it is just for a few days a week, start introducing the schedule changes to your dog. For example, if you know that your dog's meal times have to change based on your new work schedule, start introducing the new time sooner rather than later. It is also important to keep that time even on days when you are home.
Exercise, Exercise, EXERCISE!
Many experts agree that frequent exercise decreases a person's stress and anxiety levels, and the same can be said for dogs. To help manage your dog’s anxiety when they see you leave in the morning, start the morning by taking them for a walk and engaging in some form of play like fetch or tug. It is important to work exercise into your new routine as it will release a lot of your dog’s energy that they have built up from the night before. This will help them relax and even sleep when you are gone.
Do NOT Make A Big Deal of Coming or Going
Leaving your dog can be hard and it is natural to want to cuddle up and say goodbye, however, this can make leaving harder on your dog. When leaving, it is important not to work up your dog and to just leave in a calm and natural manner. When returning home, even though it is fun to get excited with your dog that you have returned, it is important to still remain calm. This teaches your dog that leaving and coming home is a normal part of the day, and therefore nothing to get worked up or stressed about.
Leave Your Pet Alone for Periods of Time
If you have a return date for going back to work, you can start preparing your dog for your departure by leaving the house for longer periods of time. You can also turn you leaving into a positive experience by giving your pet a special toy or treat they would only get when you leave. This can be anything from a special cuddle toy, a Kong full of treats, or an interactive toy like the Omega Paw tricky treat ball. By doing these two things in combination, it teaches your dog that even though you are leaving, you always come back and they get something to distract them in the meantime.
New Play Area
Depending on the age of your dog, you may not want them to have full access to the house while you are away. Creating a dedicated play area using either baby gates or crate gates for them will ensure they do not get into trouble, while also giving them more space than their crate.
Accidents Happen
With you being home all day your dog has become accustomed to never having to hold their pee. With you being gone for 8 plus hours during the day, an accident may occur. It is important not to be angry with your dog, instead set them up for success. Leave pee pads by the place you let them out or in their play area in case they cannot hold it until you come home.
Take Advantage of Automatic Feeders and Drinking Fountains
Depending on the type of job or prior commitments you have, sometimes your daily schedule may change resulting in an inconsistent feeding schedule for your dog. Automatic feeders allow you to program the time you wish to feed your dog and also have customizable portions sizes. Drinking fountains provide your pet with cool, clean water and ensure their bowl will not run out until your return home.
Use DayCare or Dog Walkers
If you know that your dog does not do well on their own and will need extra love and attention while you are at work, consider enrolling them in doggy day care or hiring a dog walker that can take them on an afternoon walk. Rover is a great resource as they are the largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers in Canada! For more information click here!
Don’t Forget the Wishlist
Ren’s is dedicated to giving your pet their best life, which means making the shopping experience easier and more convenient for you, the pet parent. That is why Ren’s is introducing a Wishlist! The Wishlist will allow you to add all items you need or want to one convenient location and track if any items on your list drop in price. Wishlists can also be shared among friends and family or kept private. To learn more click here!
Preparing Your Cat
Create an Interactive Play Area
Cat’s are naturally aloof and independent creatures, however, that does not mean they do not get bored or lonely. The best way to set your cat up for your return to work is to create an interactive and stimulating play area. Cat trees are great as they allow your cat to both exercise and relieve stress by climbing, scratching, and napping. Toss toys made of wool or toys that contain catnip are naturally engaging to your cat and will stimulate them both physically and mentally as well.
Take Advantage of Automatic Feeders and Drinking Fountains
Automatic feeders give you more freedom and flexibility as you can program the time in which your cat can eat and also control portion size. Drinking fountains provide your pet with cool clean water and ensure their bowl will not run out until your return home.
Returning to work after spending so much time at home with your pet is going to require an adjustment period. However, if you follow these helpful tips and tricks, you and your pet will become accustomed to your new routine in no time!