Those of you lucky enough to have a pet at home during this whirlwind year already know how much comfort they can bring you. Sure, they might be a bit handful at times, but all the love you get for them is totally worth it. Now that 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 remember times when things were more normal, there would have been so many days at the office that you wished your pup was with you. They can lift your mood and help reduce stress. Parcel2go, which offers a comparison of international couriers, explained this 83% of people agree that owning a pet helps reduce pressure at work. So while you’re working from home, you’ll definitely be grateful to your canine companion.
exercise breaks
One of the best things about having a dog is how much they force you to get outside. You might have one of those days when you don’t really feel like doing much, but you still need to go for a few 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, it could give you a much-needed break to stretch and exercise, and you can return to work rejuvenated.
They entertain
Of course, you can’t always leave your desk and play with your dog. You still have work to do. So you must have a few tricks up your sleeve to keep your furry friend entertained. A long chew can keep them busy for a while. There are many options out there, from raw bones to pig ears. Chewing can help reduce your dog’s stress levels, but be sure to check with your vet what they can and can’t do. Another alternative is to stuff a kong with peanut butter.
Stick to a schedule
Just as you have your regular office hours, you should set a schedule for your dog. If they’re expecting food and going for a walk at certain times, they’ll know when to keep themselves busy and will be less of a bother to you. This can both benefit you – you’ll know when to work and your dog will be less anxious.
While owning a dog can feel like owning a full-time job, it can still provide you with great company when working from home. Do you have any tips for keeping them entertained while working from home?
Photo credit: Photo by Marieke Koenders, cookie the pom, Ayla Schürze At Unsplash
