Dogs and Separation Anxiety After Sheltering In Place

Mar 30, 2020

In moments of stress and uncertainty, a cuddle from a pet can be just the thing you need. Pets have become our new coworkers and study buddies while we shelter in place and it’s tempting to spoil them. But as you spend more time with your pets, remember that the COVID-19 pandemic is temporary, and eventually you will resume daily activities outside of your house.
 
To make the transition easier after weeks of sheltering in place, it is important to ensure your dog is sufficiently exercised and stimulated while still working on independence. Our Dog Training Library provides resources to do that.
 
Continue taking your dog on walks while practicing safe social distancing, but avoid public places like the dog park. Keep your dog engaged by finding new toys and puzzles for them to explore and work on basic obedience training at home. If you’re new to training, start with our Managing a Dog’s Behavior Protocol where you’ll learn about Cue-Response-Reward.
 
Your dog will be used to having you at home, which may result in Separation Anxiety behaviors once you return to work. Practice independence training to prevent this by referencing the Relaxation and Crate Training Protocols. Both offer useful strategies for dogs to gain more confidence and have a safe and familiar place during times of stress. Consider taking walks without your furry friend or leaving them in a different room with a high value treat while you work from home.            
 
Have you read this far, but don’t have a pet? Visit our adoption page and get started with the Virtual Adoption Process!