For those of you who are lucky enough to have a pet at home during this whirlwind of a year, you know already how much comfort they can bring to you. Sure, they might be a bit of handful at times but all the love you get in return is completely worth it. Now the order has been given to work from home again, if possible, it’s time to explore why dogs can make such good company during this time.
Reduce Anxiety
If you cast your mind back to when things were more normal, there would have been so many days at the office when you wish your pup could have been with you. They can lighten your mood and help reduce stress levels. Parcel2go, who provide a comparison of international couriers stated that 83% of people feel that owning a pet helps relieve their workplace pressures. So while you’re working from home, you’ll definitely find yourself grateful for your dog companion.
Exercise Breaks
One of the best things about having a dog is how much they force you to get outside. You could be having one of those days where you don’t really feel like doing much, but you still have to on a couple of walks. Playing with your pet can give you an opportunity to get away from your desk. You can get a good dose of daily exercise, which is great for both your physical, and mental, health. Plus having a stretch and a move around could give you a much-needed break and you can come back to work feeling rejuvenated.
Keeping them Entertained
Of course, you can’t always be away from your desk and playing with your dog. You’ve still got your work to do. So, you need to have some tricks up your sleeve to keep your furry friend entertained. A long-lasting chew can keep them occupied for a while. There’s plenty of options out there, from raw bones to pig ears. Chewing can help reduce your dog’s stress levels, but be sure to check with the vet what they can and can’t have. Another alternative is filling a kong with peanut butter.
Stick to a Schedule
Just like you’ve got your set office hours, you should set a schedule for your dog. If they come to expect food and walk at certain times, they’ll know when to keep themselves occupied and bother you less. This can benefit both of you – you know when you have to get work done, and your dog will be less anxious.
Even though owning a dog can feel like its own full-time job, they can still make great company for you when you work from home. Do you have any tips for how to keep them entertained while working from home?
Photo credits: Photo by marieke koenders, Cookie the Pom, Ayla Verschueren on Unsplash
