It’s safe to say the pandemic, for most, has flipped our lives upside down. With most of us being stuck at home the demand for adopting or fostering pets surged. Between March and September 2020, according to PetPoint there was an increase by 8 percent of homes who brought in a new dog.
While the health benefits of having a pet are well known 
—from lowering blood pressure to reducing stress—the relationship is complex, and how pet owners and their pets are coping amid lengthy lockdowns is an open question.
Our routines have been disrupted, as well as our pets. Being over a year into this pandemic it’s safe to say the honeymoon phase is over. Disruptions have come and gone and have come again, but trying to maintain as much normalcy for yourself and your pet is important.
To minimize your pets being upset by the disruptions, we suggest the following:
🐾 Pets’ daily lives should be kept as routine as possible. Continue their regular walking routine where safe to do so while ensuring social distancing is maintained.
🐾 Dogs can still gain the benefit of physical exercise and mental stimulation without leaving the house or yard through games such as fetch, chasing a toy or hide and seek. Pets on behavioural medications, as with any ongoing medication, should continue to be given to them as normal and not be stopped during this time.
🐾 Everyone needs a break from the people they live with at times, and this includes pets. If you are home with your pets and children, remember to give your pets a break from the kids if the pet wants it. This may just be a chance to lie in another room or have a rest outside. Make it a family rule that if the pets are on their bed (or other designated place) they are having a rest and must be left alone.
🐾 If you find working at home difficult with your pet, consider restricting them from the room where you are working. A puzzle toy or device that rewards them with treats or a chewing item such as a bone may help settle them.
While you are working at home, remember to take breaks – your pets are perfect at helping with that!
The Move Your Doggie team has been here for our Pet Parent Community throughout the whole pandemic. We have remained open during the pandemic following the COVID-19 protocols serving our pet community. If you’re in the Durham Region and need help tending to your pet’s needs please reach out. We offer a variety of services. Please also book your Complimentary Meet & Greet, we look forward to meeting you and your pet!
