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There is no doubt, pets are the winners through the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Having their family around leads to a feeling of security and comfort.
When working from home, it is important to:
- Maintain a normal routine for your pet by starting and finishing at the same time each day. When taking a break, make sure you check in with your pets for some quality time and use this as their walk time for dogs or play time for cats etc.
- Provide an “alone” time space. It is important to give your pets some secure time on their own. Animals behave differently when they are left to themselves.
- Exercise your pets before their alone time starts. This will allow time to release energy in a positive way and is less likely to lead to unwanted behaviours such as chewing, digging, scratching etc. A slow walk is actually better than zoomies or playing chase as it will work to calm your pet rather than raising the level of excitement.
- Give cats some hidey hole type spaces where they can retreat and not be “found” by humans for a while.
- When coming and going from home without your pet, make sure these are un-dramatic moments. Making them routine and fuss-free will reduce the stress prompters for your pet.
How to make an “alone space” secure and enriching.
- Hide food around the yard or house for them to find.
- Use puzzle feeders or “kongs” to make their meal times last longer and become more challenging and stimulating for your pet.
- Leave chew toys out for them and rotate these daily to provide greater interest.
- Bones of the correct size and type are useful for a working from home treat. Do not give bones to animals unsupervised as this may lead to choking accidents. Read through our blog on https://thepymblevet.com.au/what-types-of-bones-if-any-should-i-feed-my-dog/
Pets During Isolation
For tips on caring for pets while their owners are in isolation, read our blog on Tips During Isolation for Pets.
Sources
- The Pymble Vet Team
- RSPCA
- Vets Choice Article by Dr Alice Marshall, Registered Veterinarian (NSW VSB)
