6 ways to lower your pet’s anxiety when you go back to work in the office

Pet ownership in the UK has exploded during the pandemic, with 3.2million households getting a new pet during lockdown.

Over half of new owners are in the younger age bracket, with 59% under 34, according to data from the Pet Food Manufacturers association – which means millions of animals who have had their humans around them during lockdown may soon be left alone for long periods as offices reopen and workers are expected back.

While quarantine has come with many challenges, it’s brought pets and their people closer together, with nearly 80% saying they were able to bond with their pet more during this time.

She adds: ‘I’m a freelance writer so I’m home a fair amount. But when I’m not, he will often mess in the house, chew furniture and bark. We have actually had to replace our sofas three times since adopting him because when he is stressed he will chew. The constantly changing rules haven’t helped either as he would get used to having all of the children at home and then, suddenly, they would be gone again. He has struggled to keep adjusting to changing goal posts. I am very nervous about the impact that getting back to normal life will have on him.’

Dalmatian Lily was brought home to St Albans 13 years ago by Sophie Banks, who says: ‘I was with her every single day for a year during the pandemic. When restrictions lifted and we weren’t here all the time she did get anxious. Things escalated when I went away for 6 weeks, even though my husband and son were there, Lily lost so much weight she had to be on a drip at the vets for 2 days. She’s had every scan and test and they found nothing – I’m sure the beginning of it all was emotional/separation anxiety.’

And these owners are not alone.

In fact, a Banfield Pet Hospital survey shows that 73% of pet owners are concerned about going back to the office and spending time away from their pets, with 59% worried their dog or cat may suffer from separation anxiety once their new work schedule begins.  

A Dog’s Life Podcaster and animal behaviour expert Anna Webb advises, ‘Overcoming any animal anxieties should begin ASAP. In fact, dogs need to be left alone from the get go. It encourages independence, confidence, and reduces needy or territorial behaviours.’ Webb also advises buying an appropriate chew, as chewing is a natural activity for dogs that releases happy hormones – it calms them and helps them to settle.

And for heavy duty help, Mars Petcare expert Dr King has created a 6 step protocol to help owners get through the transition.

1. Create a safe and happy space: This should be a fun place with a bed, toys, water etc. Regularly take your pet here to teach them it is a good place to be. Feeding meals in this area helps build positive associations. Enclose your pet in this safe place with a treat while you go to another room briefly. Return and release your pet without making a fuss. Repeat, and gradually increase the time you are away in small increments.  
2. Leave and arrive quietly: Always keep your hellos and goodbyes low key. Leaving and homecoming rituals should involve minimal fuss, it helps your pet to understand that your absence isn’t anything to worry about. Prolonged goodbyes may increase their anxiety. While it’s best not to make a big fuss when you first arrive home, it’s important to strike a balance between teaching them how to cope on their own, with giving plenty of attention and affection when you’re together. 
3. Develop a consistent, predictable routine: If you’re in lockdown or working from home more than usual, it’s tempting to enjoy lots of time with your pet. But establishing a routine that more closely resembles pre-lockdown life, or what your routine is likely to be when restrictions relax, is more beneficial for your dog. A consistent routine enables your dog to predict what will happen next and goes a long way to reducing their stress levels. 
4. Make sure they stay active (physically and mentally): Before your pet has some time alone, make sure they’ve had enough exercise – especially for active dogs. Go for walks, play games and teach new tricks using positive reinforcement. If they’re a little tired, then they’re more likely to have a nap while you’re away or at least find it easier to relax. 
5. Keep them occupied and calm: When you leave your pet, make sure they have a quiet comfortable place to rest with a special treat or toy to occupy them. You could also leave a blanket or piece of clothing carrying your scent with them, as this may help to comfort them.
6. Leave a TV or radio on: If you leave a TV or radio on or play some music while you’re away, this can also help to soothe your pet. It will make the house feel less quiet in your absence and dampen any external noise which may startle your pet.

King also cautions against yelling at or admonishing an anxious pet, as it will make them more afraid, and urges owners to remember that pets aren’t behaving out of spite. They are simply scared and unable to cope on their own. She suggests installing an in-home camera as it may help you to monitor and check in on how your pet is doing during the day. If necessary, get support from friends and family, or pet sitters who can spend time with your pet.