Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Our pets have gotten quite used to us working from home and they also absolutely enjoy having the kids home for the summer, or in some cases, since the pandemic hit. Why? They are no longer alone all day for hours on end. This is especially true for dogs, as they are typically much more needy and attached to their owners than other animals.
If your kids are preparing to go back the classroom, or you are heading back to the office and waving so long to remote work, Animal Oasis has a few tips to help your pets transition into long periods of being alone.
Tip #1 Get Their Energy Out Before You Leave
If you have a healthy pet that can benefit from some daily activity, get them moving. Taking them for extra long walks (be careful they are not overheated) or playing fetch or even playing with them in the house for a while before you leave for the day will help them tolerate being alone better. They will enjoy the bonding time with you and, they will be tired and probably find it easy to sleep during most of the day.
If you or your kids are gone for long hours, having a pet sitter, dog walker, or friend stop by and visit with them or exercise them again mid-day is very helpful, especially for animals with separation anxiety or those that need extra exercise.
If you and your family do not return until it’s dark outside, make sure to leave a night light or some form of light on for your pets. Most pets can see in the dark, but light will make them more comfortable and may make them think that it is still daylight and that you haven’t been gone so long.
Tip #2 Background Noise
It can be helpful to leave the television on low or a music channel. There is even music made especially for animals to relieve anxiety. You can search for those online or on your smart TV.
Tip #3 Water and a Comfortable Resting Area
Make sure your pets have plenty of fresh water, food, and toys available to provide nutrients for their bodies and adequate hydration. It’s also critical to provide a comfortable bed, mat, or soft area for them to sleep and rest. Leaving a few toys out for them to play with is also helpful. Many toys are interactive nowadays and keep pets occupied for longer periods.
Tip #4 Security Cameras
If you are using a webcam to keep an eye on your pets, please remember not to use the microphone to speak to them if they are not used to this. Otherwise, it will confuse them and cause distress. You can try and get your pet used to you speaking to them through the microphone while you are in another area of your home and for short periods of time at first.
Tip #5 Calming Pills and Treats
Calming supplements can ease your pet’s anxiety. Before you leave the house, give your pet the recommended dosage of these all-natural, anti-anxiety medications, as this can help your pet feel more at ease during times alone.
Animal Oasis Hospital also offers stronger anti-anxiety medications by prescription, depending on the severity of your pet’s disorder. It’s important to speak to your veterinarian about these medications before hurricane season gets into full swing.
Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital in Naples offers the most up to date and progressive veterinary services for your pets. Ranging from laser surgery, ultrasound, dental X-rays, radiology, full pharmacy, and in house diagnostics, Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital provides your pets with the necessary options for treatment.
Contact Animal Oasis Veterinary Hospital to schedule vaccinations, pick up paperwork, and extra medications for your pets today!
239-431-9667
www.aovethospital.com
