Welcome back to Talking Tails!
I have certainly enjoyed having my mom and dad home for the past several months. I was beginning to wonder if they had quit their jobs to stay home and play with me! However, all good things eventually come to an end. I know a number of my furry friends’ humans have been going back to work – some a few days a week and others every day. Wow, what a change for all of us!
One of the most common issues we will experience with your return to work is separation anxiety. Workdays are long and we miss you! Leaving the radio or TV on can actually make us feel as though we are not alone. This is especially an issue for all the new puppies and rescue animals that became part of families during COVID-19. This may be the first time they will be separated from their human for an extended period of time.
Toys are a great way to keep us entertained and address our boredom while you are away. Some of my friends, not me of course, can be rather destructive when bored. Drapes, furniture, garbage – nothing is off limits. Puzzle games that distribute treats (to keep our interest) are challenging. Time flies when we engage our mind in this activity, which also makes us tired. An interesting chew toy is also a great idea. As a side note, a walk/run before being left alone can tire out some of my energized furry friends and
lead to a calmer day.
If we have given you reason to be concerned about our wellbeing, having a neighbor or pet sitter stop by mid-day might be a good idea. A brief walk or some playtime is just what we may need. This may be especially helpful for my high-energy friends or those who are struggling with separation anxiety. I find myself just resting while mom and dad are gone – please, don’t have anybody stop in to disturb me!
As a species, we do pride ourselves on being highly adaptable. Although our humans may be returning to work, we will adjust to this new situation and rise above!
Talk to you soon!
Joey
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