A Hound Headache – Heading Back to Work

With many Australians possibly heading back into the office in the near future. Pet Insurance Australia has some top tips to help your pet adjust to the working life.

“Many of us have been enjoying life working from home alongside our beloved pets,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “With many Aussies possibly heading back into the work environment, we are urging all pet parents to start considering their pet’s needs now.”

Boredom can evoke a huge range of behavioural issues, particularly in dogs. These can range from barking and escaping to digging, chewing, and general destructive tendencies.

“It’s important to remember that when you are not around, offering your pet unlimited attention, they can easily get bored,” Crighton reminds readers. “Your dog’s idea of entertainment may not be pleasing to either yourself or your neighbours.”

Ripping a cushion apart and causing a foam snowstorm is hugely rewarding for a bored pet. Crighton suggests considering a good boredom busting regime ahead of time to prevent this type of entertainment.

“It’s time to get prepared with some top ideas to help your pet adjust back into the working life schedule,” she says. “Consider what your pet’s day will look like when you go back to work.”

TOP TIPS

• Get up early and ensure you walk your pet before you go to work.
• Have a good selection of ‘home alone’ toys, rotate these daily, and always remove them when you return from work.
• Have some boredom-busting techniques – give your dog a job to do when you are not at home.
• Keep a good routine, walking in the mornings and afternoons, or a good play session.
• Ease your pet back into the schedule. Pulling a really long day on the first day back is not a wise idea.

“Sticking to a routine is important,” Crighton suggests. “Get up at the time you would if you were heading to the office and walk your dog, and don’t let the weather deter you. Invest in some warm, waterproof gear, and stick with your plan.”

Pet Insurance Australia also suggests getting creative. Practices like; allowing your pet to rip up boxes, or hide treats around the home, and utilize the many puzzle toys available.

“Remembering that your dog views your backyard as a television show, the same smells, sights, and movements every day,” she says. “If you had to watch the same show, every single day, day after day, digging a giant hole, or barking to the neighbouring dogs is far more entertaining. Dogs are masters at developing their own entertainment.”

The key is to think like a dog!

“Enriching your pet’s environment and making an effort to change this up will have a huge impact on your pets alone time,” Crighton says. “With a little creativity and planning, you can easily help your pet adjust back to work and school life.”

If you do experience any behavioural issues with your pet when you return to work, seek professional help quickly.

“The quicker to act with behavioural problems the better chance you have at solving the issue.”

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Photo by Isabela Kronemberger on Unsplash

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