Published to Newsletter on Jun 30, 2021
Tracey L. Briggs, MA
Health Education Consultant, Supervisor
Employee Wellness
Feel Good about “Paws”itively Supporting Those Who Have Been by Your Side
Ever since many of us began working remotely, our furry family members have become our 24/7 sidekicks. Social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic has brought us, literally, closer to our pets. They enhanced the positive in our lives and became our office helpers, couch companions, and stress relievers. Now many of us are in the process of gradually returning to work and spending less time at home. Over the weeks and months to come, many pets are likely to experience separation anxiety. Just as returning safely to work will be an adjustment for us, we also need to be mindful of our pet’s need for help as they return to their previous situations as well. Here are some practical suggestions to ease the shift for our tail-wagging pals.
Easing pets into a reduction of constant attention can help them when you go back to work or school. Separation anxiety can become an issue for pets, so it helps to start gently reminding them what it’s like to be alone for parts of the day.
So how can you ease into the change and soften that initial panic for them? Regularly leaving pets alone for 30 minutes at a time can get help “desensitize” them to absences. As they adjust, gradually increase the amount of time you are away. Doing the prep work lessens the impact of extreme transition when you are back at the office full time.
Schedule a schedule
Another recommendation would be setting up a regular routine because both cats and dogs (like most adults and children) do best on a schedule. Build in consistency for when they wake, when they eat, when you exercise with them, and set aside time so that they have independent intervals throughout the day. Experiencing a set schedule now can help pets adjust quicker when you go back to work.
Providing something to challenge and distract them when you first leave, such as giving your dog a puzzle toy or placing a few toys around your house for your cat to hunt for can be helpful, as can using a pheromone collar or diffuser or playing relaxing music for them. Studies show that dogs really like reggae, but any music will soothe the inner beast.
Making sure dogs get exercise before you leave for work, whether it be a walk or playing with them in the backyard, or playing an interactive game with your cat for 10 minutes or less can wear them out and make them ready for a nap by the time you leave. These actions can help to make your absence easier on your pets.
Interaction with their Pack
If you want to give your pup some playtime while you are away, it is relatively easy to find doggy daycare facilities in your vicinity; just call ahead to be sure they are open and their requirements for participation. If your dog is anxious or has health needs, you can find personalized doggy daycare providers who run their business out of their homes.
Truly, no matter what path you choose, by starting the process of easing your pet into your transition from home to office work, you will find that the positive impact it has will make it much easier on both of you.
Would you like to be included in our UNM Zoo-m? Pet therapy can help you smile and reduce stress, so plan on joining Tracey when she and her dog, Mocha, host a Wellbeing Expo webinar “full of fur”. Bring your pet(s) or just come to share in the antics and stories about our 4-legged friends. The virtual Wellbeing Expo will be held on September 21, 22, and 23, with many wellness topics being offered from financial to physical. Register early to take part in the varied educational opportunities during the 3-day event.
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