If you are thinking about getting a pet, your biggest concern is probably whether you will have enough time to spend with them. After all, animals require a lot of love and attention, and the last thing any pet owner wants is to keep the dog inside the house throughout the entire day while they are at work.
Well, surprise, surprise, you are not the only person concern about this. However, there is a way for you to go to your daily job and still have a happy puppy at home. Here are some things that you should do.
1. Arrange a comfortable corner
Taking into consideration that the pet will spend most of the day alone in your home, you have to make it comfortable and fun. They have to pass the time somehow, right? Well, first things first, you have to choose an area of your home that will be their own space. It can be a spare bedroom or a section of the living room or kitchen. If you decide to go with the latter, you should get a gate that will prevent them from going into other rooms and possibly making a mess or hurting themselves.
If you are currently crate training them, make sure to put this item in the corner. Then, fill the space up with comfy pillows and blankets. If you are currently crate training them, make sure to put this item in the corner. Then, fill the space up with comfy pillows and blankets. You may visit HoundGames for a detailed puppy crate training guide. In addition, you should also leave some old clothing items or T-shirts so that the dog can pick up your scent. This way, they won’t be lonely and will eagerly await for you to walk through the front door. Finally, make sure that there is a comfy pet bed as well as a ton of toys that will keep them entertained.
2. Establish a routine
Every adult understands how important it is to develop a routine and stick to it. If you aren’t organized, you cannot lead a stress-free life. Well, when you get a dog, make sure to include them in that routine. It is the best way to ensure that you spend enough time together while still being able to complete all your daily tasks.
This routine will also greatly help you in the training process. Pets need consistency during this, so make sure to take them out and feed them every day at the same time, and play with them. Besides, it will also enable them to understand when it is time for you to go and when you get to do stuff together. This will make them feel secure and comfortable, so they won’t be lonely and feel abandoned when you go to work.
3. Exercise together
While on the subject of routine, you should take some time out of your busy schedule and spend it outside with your dog. First of all, working out is good for your health, and secondly, it is necessary for your pet. If you are not an athletic person, you can start with taking a walk early in the morning or in the evening when you get home. If you want to go jogging, keep in mind that puppies and older dogs shouldn’t engage in this activity.
You cannot expect to find a happy and playful dog if they spend the entire day inside. They need to run and explore their surroundings, so make sure to squeeze in at least a 15-minute walk every day.
4. Plan a daily visit
If you live near your office and have an hour-long lunch break, you should use it to go home and check on your dog. This will not only provide you with an opportunity to relax for a bit, but it will also make your pet happy. Spending just half an hour with them can go a long way.
However, if this is not an option for you, you can have a friend come by and take the dog out for a short walk. What’s more, you can even hire a professional to do this. Fortunately for you, nowadays, there are numerous dog-related services that can be performed in your house, and one of them is in-home grooming. According to Groomit.me, it will not only save a lot of precious time, but it can also be beneficial for young puppies that get anxious in new surroundings with unknown people.
5. Make sure that they are entertained
We have already mentioned how significant it is to set a dog zone in your home, but you also have to give them something to do while you are away. Today, there are many toys on the market that won’t only entertain them but also help them develop numerous skills. You should look up some of these online and find the one that is a perfect fit for your new furry friend.
What’s more, don’t forget that we live in a digital age, so why not get a pet camera that will enable you to check up on them at any time you choose. Most of these have a 2-way audio feature, meaning that you can communicate with them even when at work.
6. Schedule bonding time
Your pet needs your attention. It is the way it is. It means that you have to make enough time every day to spend with them. This isn’t only important for the dog, but also for you. Remember that having a pet is one of the best ways to relax and reduce stress levels.
This is probably another reason why you are considering whether you should get a pet, and we understand it completely. However, keep in mind that it is always a better option to spend half an hour with your dog and provide them with your undivided attention, instead of being around them all the time and ignore them.
7. Consider daycare
Finally, if your job requires you to work a few days a week around the clock or when finishing an important project, you can always leave your dog at daycare. While you are at work, your dog will have a blast playing with other pets. Naturally, you should take some time to find the best daycare in your area and ensure that their employees are professional and have a full understanding of the pets’ behavior. This is a win-win situation for both of you. You won’t feel guilty, and your dog will spend the day playing and having fun with other animals.