Well we made it folks, the COVID-19 pandemic is finally loosening its grip on the state of Connecticut. A lot of us are now asking: “now what?” Businesses have reopened as well as many offices that had their employees working remotely for a year. The past year has been a dream for many dog owners and their pets who have been able to spend ample hours together at home. Many dog owners are now asking how do I help my dog adjust to my return to work?
During late winter, The Perfect Pup opened a second facility and with it, we offered two new successful services to owners who don’t want to leave their dogs home all day. We now offer a Dog Training Day Camp and Puppy Play and Train Camp. Both of these provide the training and socialization that dogs have experienced with their owners being home for a year. Check out some answers in this week’s article on the question of how do I help my dog adjust to my return to work?
My dog has separation anxiety now that I have returned to work.
Many employers have made the decision to give their employees ample notice of when they want them to return to work. On the other hand, some employers really haven’t given any notice at all and expect their employees to come in tomorrow! Whatever the case is, you should start adjusting your dog back to your old workday routine. Reinstate your pet’s old meal and walk time. If your dog spent time in their crate while you were at work, have them nap there. Slowly begin to take trips out of the house for longer periods and be sure your pet knows you are leaving by establishing a routine such as a special treat when you leave. If you aren’t given time to establish this routine, it might be better to bring your dog to camp or daycare for a bit to adjust.
How can I tell if my dog is stressed about me going back to work?
Dogs are fully capable are understanding and learning their human’s daily routine. Grabbing the leash and a bottle of water may elicit an excited response in the dog who thinks it is time for a walk. Unfortunately, they also observe our going to work routines like shaving or packing lunch. Dogs that are nervous or stressed may whine, pant, or pace when we go through our morning work prep routine. When you physically leave the house, they may bark or scratch at the door. As an owner, you’ll probably feel bad but remember that a stressed and nervous dog may become a destructive dog. However, a tired dog is a happy dog so before heading back to work, increase the length of their morning walks or play a long game of fetch in the backyard.
My puppy or dog never got socialized in quarantine.
Dogs are social animals and even though they may have spent a significant amount of time with just you in quarantine, this lack of socialization can lead to bad behaviors down the road. Introducing them to new people, places, other dogs, and surfaces can prevent fear and aggression in the future. If you are returning to work now, you must still allow your dog to be socialized. If you were home for 24 hours a day and are now suddenly gone for 10, this can be really confusing to a dog you just adopted. If you are the only person that they have seen this year, make it a priority to get out there and socialize the pup before you return to work.