During the quarantine we watched as cats paraded across keyboards and we introduced our dogs on zoom. There was a bird that pecked at the camera and even a turtle that came across my screen. Our colleagues’ pets became part of our work life. Dog walks gave us a little break in the day. Who knew there were so many cute dogs in the neighborhood!?
There were even funny memes about dogs excited that we are finally around to dote over them and cats wishing we would go back to work, all over social media. The cats got their wish—we are now going back hybrid or are back in the office full time.
We adjusted our routines for quarantine. Now we need to readjust for the hybrid options of going back into the office. You’ve been with pets for months and now you need reduce stress for them while you are away. The re-adjustment is not just in our routine but the routine of our pets. A routine that’s in flux is stressful for everyone involved. We need to take into consideration the stress of our pets in our absence. By paying attention to the needs of our pets, creating a schedule for them will decrease their stress.
Stress in animals shows up in a variety of ways:
- Excessive barking
- Needless whining
- Destruction-biting woodwork, destroying couches, getting into trash bins
- Pacing
- Accidents
Here are some ways to prepare for a pet positive post-quarantine:
- Take progressively longer periods out of the house, start with an hour and extend that over time
- Set regular walk times
- Alter mealtimes if needed and be sure that mealtimes are at a specific time each day
- Give them a treat before you leave
- Leave them with toys and activities-lick pads, snuffle matts , puzzle toys
- Radio and even television can keep them occupied
- Love them up when you come back home
Taking them to work might not be an option but if it is, you’ll want to read this blog on taking your dog to work. Our pets were an added joy and companionship while in lock down. It’s been an exciting year with Caraboo, my Italian Greyhound, by my side. She has been a faithful companion and fun loving friend. Be sure to treat your pets kindly while you transition back to work life.
Margo Crawford is a Productivity Coach with Wave Productivity. Margo works with entrepreneurs, small business owners and business professionals to help them get more focused, organized and productive in their workplace. Set up a consultation today. Margo coaches by phone nationally. If you want to get more organized in your office call 602-677-8275 or email [email protected]