With scores of businesses calling employees back to the office after more than a year of working at home, the adjustment is going to be huge for you and your pet. There are things you can do to make the transition easier, save your home and your sanity.
The stories are popping up around the world. From destruction of clothes and furniture to unusual indoor urination, our pets are not adjusting well to the world opening up for business again. Separation anxiety is most often to blame – they’ve been the 24/7/365 center of our attention during the length of the pandemic. If you’re headed back to work soon, here are some essential steps to take right now.
Leave The House Every Day
Even if just for an hour, it’s important to ease your pets into their new routine. Make the departure a rewarding one so your pet associates your leaving home with something positive. And then reward your pet again when you return.
Ensure Dogs Get Exercise
Ensuring your pet has ample opportunity for exercise and engagement will help to reduce anxiety. Our Enhanced Day Care program offers periods of play, human attention and rest. Most pets are relaxed after our experience and behave better at home.
Start Routines Early
If your commute will mean you’ll need to wake much earlier to make it to the office on time, start setting the alarm now. This incremental change will help you avoid that dazed an confused look we’ve all seen when awaking much earlier than normal.
Recognize The Signs of Stress
Unusual barking, whining or pacing are some signs that your dog is stressed. Dogs will most often mirror our behavior and mood, so it’s important to be aware of what your pup is seeing in you. The American Kennel Club has a nice article here.