Remind your pet how to be home alone


 
  pet home alone

Has your pet been loving having you home these past few months? All the extra snuggles and attention must seem like quite the treat! But that begs the question, how will they feel when your routine goes back to normal?

Even pets who have never had separation anxiety before may act out if they are suddenly left alone after months of constant together time. Your pet may not know what to do with themselves on their own—and their solution to this problem may be less than ideal (digging up the yard or destroying the furniture).

So let’s prepare our pets for a successful first day apart! With just a little bit of pre-planning, you can help your pet find their normal, pre-quarantine rhythm again.

  • Take baby steps. Leave the house for short periods of time (1–2 minutes) and gradually extend the time you spend away over several days. Not only will this help your pet remember what it’s like to spend time alone, it will remind them that you’ll always return.
  • Play it cool. Don’t fuss over your pet before you leave and avoid the temptation to take part in an excited greeting when you return. If you act like leaving is no big deal, then your pet will believe it.
  • Create a distraction. Give your pet something to keep them busy and take their mind off your absence. Favorite toys or puzzle feeders stuffed with treats are great solutions!
  • Organize your house for success. If your pet gravitates toward certain items (e.g., pillows, shoes, etc.) to destroy in angst, make these inaccessible so they do not become a convenient energy outlet.
  • Stick to a routine. A routine can help your pet feel secure about what happens in each stage of the day. Be sure your routine includes both exercise and some snuggle time.
     

You can even use anti-anxiety supplements or pheromones to help smooth the transition. Check out our great selection of supplements!

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If your pet is really struggling with the transition, reach out to your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and may recommend anti-anxiety medication as well.

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