Working From Home With Pets
January 4, 2021
Written by Tyler Gonzalez, Oncology Department Liaison, Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital
Working from home has been a change for many people who have only ever worked at their job’s physical location. This transition comes with challenges, from internet problems to, of course, dogs barking during very important phone calls! Sound familiar? If you need any help working from home while also keeping your pet occupied, look no further! We’re answering some of your most asked questions below!
1) What should I do when my pet needs to go out?
Having a preset message ready to send in chat channels or email during calls can help if you ever need to quickly excuse yourself to let your pup out. An example of a good message could be, “Hello team! I will be gone for the next 10 minutes to let out my dog!” You may need to get your dog used to a new potty schedule, so be sure to plan ahead and around your meetings!
2) What should I do when my pet starts making noise on my meeting?
Know where the mute button is at all times and be ready to mute when necessary, whether it’s a barking dog or howling cat! You can also wear headphones with the capability of canceling out background noise (yes they exist, and they’re great!)
3) What should I do when my pet stares at me aimlessly?
Where your pet used to sleep peacefully all day, they may be more active now with you around. And they may look to you to keep them entertained!
Find activities, puzzle games, and toys that help keep your pet busy while you work. Examples of good toys to use are toys and balls that are attached to strings! These work great for the pet who doesn’t like to bring toys back to you, but will bark until you come to them! Here are a few more interactive pet toys:
- Automatic cat laser pointer
- KONG Wobbler treat dispenser
- Puzzle game dog toy
- Hide and seek plush toy
- Automatic rolling ball
- Snuffle mat
Another way to keep your pet calm and occupied is to play sounds of nature or bird noises. These sounds will keep you calm throughout the day, while also grabbing the attention of your pet! There’s even DOGTV that you can leave on all day to enrich your dog’s home environment.
Advice from a Professional
Kirstin Lee, CVT, is Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital’s Internal Medicine Department Liaison. She has worked from home long before the pandemic! Kirstin recommends that you:
“Have a designated space for you to work and incorporate your pet’s normal behavior into a nearby space for them as well. This is as easy as putting a shirt of yours down next to their bed, some favorite toys, and their water bowl. It helps keep them comfortable and understand that that is where they should be.”
Working from home is difficult enough, so making sure that your pet is occupied, and being prepared for any disturbances that may arise is a great way to keep yourself, and your pet, comfortable while sharing your home during the day!