What Will Happen To Our Pets When We Return To Work?

Dog Behavior

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With vaccines becoming more and more available, it’s only a matter of time before things return to normal. Restaurants will open back up, movie theater screens will roll, and our favorite metropolitan areas will bustle once again. Perhaps most significantly, jobs will return to their usual workplaces. Although these changes are generally positive, they might not affect us all in a healthy manner. Dogs, who’ve become accustomed to their owner’s constant companionship, will have a difficult time readjusting to our traditional schedules. Fortunately, it’s possible to predict how our pets will react to these changes and comfort them throughout the transition.  

  

How has life been for my pet this past year?

To understand how to help our pups, it’s important to first understand how they’ve adapted over the past year. Because we’ve had an increased presence in our pet’s lives, dogs have become used to a boost in attention. Extra cuddles, walks, and playtime have been established as the new norm. Since we’ve been around the house more frequently, our dogs have reconditioned to keep a far less regimented schedule. In most homes, their sleeping, eating, and eliminating routines have become much more relaxed. They’ve acclimated to our full emotional state. Instead of only seeing us before and after work, they’ve also experienced us at the most stressful times in the day. As many owners noticed, these changes initially resulted in some strange behavior.   

Towards the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic, veterinarians recorded an overall rise in dog aggression and disobedience. For families who previously spent a lot of time away from home, this behavior was increasingly apparent. Over time, our dogs were able to readjust to their new environments, and these tendencies subsided. Of course, as the covid-19 world comes to an end, their adaptations will have to be unlearned.   

  

What behaviors should I watch for? 

Going back to work will inevitably trigger another round of damaging behavior. Coping to a lack of attention will manifest in several forms – all of which can be associated with separation anxiety. Most commonly, separation anxiety is represented in an aura of panic and fear. When you leave the house, your dog might seem upset, resulting in behaviors:    

  • Whining  
  • Whimpering  
  • Panting  
  • Pacing  
  • Shaking  
  • Barking   

Their anxiety could lead to excessive chewing, scratching the doors and windows, or eliminating indoors. Every dog owner should expect to see some variation of this behavior and prepare to handle these situations with patience and love. Your pet will recover and eventually act like themselves; it might just take a bit of time.   

  

What are habits I can start to prepare my pet for?   

To smooth out this transition as much as possible, there are a couple of things you can do to prepare your dog.   

  • Make sure you practice going back to your regular schedule. Do this by leaving your home throughout the day, just as you would for work. Slowly build up their tolerance for your absence with longer and longer stays away from home. When you leave, try to help them form mental connections with your departure – this can be through wearing a similar coat and shoes, work clothes, or maybe carrying a backpack. Mimic times you’d travel for work and create a schedule for feeding and eliminating that will translate to when the change happens. Mentally, these actions will familiarize your dog with a work routine and allow them to get comfortable in your leave.  
  • Build positive associations with travel. Give them treats and toys every time you leave and return – and do so with a smile. If you’re happy, calm, and collected when you travel, there’s a good chance they’ll reflect that behavior.   
  • Practice crate training. Oftentimes, and especially now, our furry friends will feel lonely and vulnerable when we’re not beside them. A crate serves as a place where dogs feel safe: a dark, enclosed space with their favorite blankets and pillows is somewhere they can make their own. Crates can be very therapeutic for anxious pets.  

  

If these are no options for your lifestyle, try calling on others for help. Family, friends, and neighbors can visit your pup throughout the day when you’re busy or hire a dog walker/daycare to spend time with them and support their exercise. Once again, establishing a consistent, healthy routine is a huge part of this process.   

In any transitional situation, your pet’s expectations are the best place to start. At Pet Butler, we know the expectations of you and your pet. That’s why Pet Butler has a service guarantee ensuring your yard is poop-free every time. Call Pet Butler today for the consistency and quality your pet need’s in their life.   

 

What Are Ways to Ease Pet Anxiety? 

Dog Behavior

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Anxiety is not just a condition reserved for humans. Pets can suffer from anxiety too. In fact, as more and more pet owners have been staying home to work, the dependency of pet to owner has become much more significant. For pets that come from shelters or rescues, this dependency and anxiety can be much more intense. This could be due to past neglect and abuse resulting in pet anxiety. The good news is that there are many tools to help pet owners reduce their pets’ anxiety. 

 

What are signs my pet has anxiety? 

Every pet deals with anxiety in different ways, but some common signs that can indicate that your pet is stressed out can be: 

  • Pacing 
  • Trembling 
  • Shaking 
  • Hypervigilance 
  • Lip licking 
  • Frequent yawning 
  • Decreased appetite 
  • Destructive behavior 
  • Potty accidents 

Once you learn how to detect when your dog is anxious, you can begin to identify the triggers that are causing the anxiety and then try to minimize them. By keeping records of the issues your pet is facing and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help diffuse problems before they occur. 

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What can cause my pet to have anxiety?  

 Anxiety can be caused by a lot of external and internal factors. Here are some of the common causes: 

  • Dog breed – Certain dog breeds are prone to separation anxiety. A first step is to make sure you research any breed of dog that you consider – making sure it fits into your lifestyle. If you are bringing one of those breeds into your home, be sure that you have the time to commit to reassuring, training and setting your anxious dog up for success. 

  

  • Pet history – If your pet has a history of abuse, abandonment, or life as a stray can all lead to anxiety that does not automatically go away when he or she enters your loving, stable home.  

  

  • Age and health – Your pet may be fine until certain factors such as health issues or old age set in that contribute to their anxiety. Understanding, compassion and schedule changes may be required to help your pet cope. 

 

What are ways to ease my pet’s anxiety? 

 

  • Exercise Your Dog – Exercise is a keyway to help your pet deal with separation anxiety. Routine exercise creates a time for bonding with your pet as well as an opportunity to tire out your pet. Playing ball or taking long walks can help burn off excess energy that builds up to cause anxiety.   

  

  • Physical Contact – Petting your pet or cuddling with your pet regularly can help reduce his or her anxiety. Especially when your pet is experiencing an anxiety episode, physical contact can help reduce it. Simply picking the pet up, cuddling it on the couch, or giving them a good long petting session can be a great solution.  

  

  • Massage – Anxiety causes tensing of the muscles, making massage therapy a perfect way to reduce tension. Keep one hand on the pet for comfort while using the other to massage long strokes along the pet’s body.  

  

  • Music Therapy – Both dogs and cats have been shown to respond positively to music therapy as a calming and relaxing effect. Classical music has been extremely impactful for dogs in stressful states.   

  

  • Time Outs – When anxiety leads to bad behavior, it may be time for a little time-out session for your pet. Pet crates can allow pets to feel safe and secure and provide a place for them to calm their nerves. Reduced light, lowered motion, and less background activity reduces stress.   

  

  • Calming Clothing – Calming clothing items such as coats and t-shirts can offer comfort for your anxious pet. These heavy clothing items offer mild, constant pressure to a pet’s body like the swaddling of a newborn baby.  

  

  • Alternative Therapies – Many pet owners have explored natural supplements and alternative products to help pets suffering from anxiety. With the guidance of your veterinarian, you may explore things like CBD, melatonin, thiamin, chamomile, L-Theanine or L-tryptophan to help your pet deal with his or her stress and anxiety. 

  

 At Pet Butler, we understand that pet anxiety can have a crippling effect on you and your pet’s relationship.  We know you want to give them the best care you can. That is why we specialize in caring for your pet’s special area by scooping up their waste. So, call 1-800-PET-BUTLER to learn how we can make your pet’s life happier, healthier, and cleaner.

How Do I Keep My Pets Calm While I am Away? 

Dog Behavior

Dog Waiting

When traveling for the holidays, it can get complicated when you have limited space and furry pets. While some accommodations and adventures are suitable for bringing a pet, it is not always recommended. A sense of displacement and disruption can be hard on a dog. Not to mentions the new sounds, smells, and sights that can be stressful for both an owner and a pup. Sometimes leaving your pet at home with a sitter or in a boarding facility is the best solution to ensuring they are comfortable and content.  However, this option takes proper training and preparation for your pets. Pet Butler has what you need to keep your pets happy while you’re away.  

 

How do I prepare my pup for my absence? 

Mix Up Your Return Time 

Before you decide to book flights, understand how your pet reacts to your absence. Some dogs and especially puppies require more attention. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety can be especially sensitive to time alone.  If this is the case, practice leaving your dog for varying periods of time and don’t encourage excitability upon your return. Mix up your departure routine so dogs don’t hop on the crazy train each time the car keys start to jangle. For those of us who have are home-bound, it is beneficial for a pet owner to give pets time alone. It ensures their confidence and comfort when you finally take that much needed break. 

 

Give Them A Comfort Token 

Certain objects with special significance to your pet can help them cope with your absence – giving them a sense of familiarity is both calming and reassuring. Toys, treats, blankets, and other items can all serve this purpose. Your scent on clothes or blankets can similarly provide a sense of normalcy. Tools like Thundershirts, music playlists, and Adaptil diffusers can be utilized to manage stress. Test out what works best for your pet and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options. 

 

Leave Them With Someone They Trust 

Once you trust your dog will behave, it’s time to introduce them to the dog sitter. When choosing someone to watch over your pet, opt for people who you know well. Ideal that would be family, friends, or a neighbor that is likely familiar with your dog and home already. If that isn’t an option, make sure to set up a meeting prior to leaving. Let the sitter introduce themselves to your pet and offer a treat; both dog and sitter will feel more relaxed and a positive association will develop between the two. Then, explain all your dog’s needs to the sitter and write them down on a list. This should include a schedule for feeding, bathroom breaks, walks/playtimes, any medication given, and a list of emergency contacts. It’s important for dogs to get adequate playtime. The more often they’re kept in the kennel or just stuck inside, the more likely they are to misbehave, become anxious, and potentially destructive.  

 

Take Them To The Dog Hotel 

If you’re going to be away from home for weeks at a time, consider using a boarding facility. These kennels are built to take care of pets for an extended stay. Your dog will receive plenty of attention, interaction with other pooches, and top-notch dog care. Research what the best care centers are near you and get in touch with them personally before you make any decisions. 

 

How do I say goodbye to my pet without making us both sad?

Before you leave, there are a few things you need to double–check. Check your pup’s collar to make sure the information is current. Leave plenty of food, treats, and a supply of medications and medical records. Check again with the sitter to make sure they’re prepared and understand what your dog needs.  After you’ve set up care for your dog, the only thing you have left to do is say goodbye – but do it the right way. A nice hug and maybe a small treat is fine, but don’t overdo it. Dogs understand human emotions to a degree and often reflect our state of mind. If you make a scene out of leaving, they might become upset or worried. If you act anxious or stressed, they will too. It’s better to slip out relatively quietly and let them go on with their day. Pretending everything is normal is sometimes the best way to go. 

 

At Pet Butler, we understand that leaving your pet behind is hard. We know you want to give them the best care you can. That is why we specialize in caring for your pet’s special area by scooping up their waste. So, call 1-800-PET-BUTLER to learn how we can make your pet’s life happier, healthier, and cleaner. 

 

 

 

Preparing Your Pup For Day Light Savings Time  

Dog Behavior

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For some people, Daylight Savings Time can throw their sleep cycle slightly out of sync. For our canine friends, it affects them much more. Dogs don’t live life by the digits on the clock. Time is driven by their human companions. Dogs use their internal circadian rhythms to tell them when to sleep, eat, use the bathroom, and other activities throughout their day. You would think that dogs can adjust to Daylight Savings Time just as well as humans, but in reality, they don’t. That is why it is important to understand why and how you can help your dog.  

  

How does it affect your dog? 

Their Bathroom Habits  

Dogs typically need to use the bathroom first thing in the morning, or if they’re accustomed to a schedule, they expect to relieve themselves then. With Daylight Savings, your dog may be confused why you aren’t waking up to take them out, or why you’re waking them up early for their morning bathroom time. We all know that “when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go.” So, pay attention to your dog who may be whimpering or creating unwanted surprises on your rug.   

Their Eating Habits  

Just like you, your pooch typically eats around the same times throughout the day, especially since you’re the one providing them the food. If you’re off an hour on feeding, you very well could find your sweet dog behaving differently like chewing your favorite shoe or knocking over the kitchen trash.   

Their Behavioral Habits  

Your dog’s behaviors may change if they are conditioned to you coming home from work at a specific time. Your dog is just like any other family member that misses you during the day. Some dogs even await their parents at the door or watch for him/her in the windowsill. Just an hour off from their normal schedule, can induce anxiety and lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing objects or potty accidents.   

  

Is there a way to prepare your dog for Daylight Savings Time?  

Yes, and it’s important that you think ahead to prevent unnecessary stress for your furry friend! Some of the best practices require you to be proactive.  

  1. To adjust your dog’s sleep patterns, you can start training him a couple of days ahead of Day Light Savings Time by waking them up a couple of minutes early each day. This will allow your dog’s circadian rhythm to gradually change and adjust to the new wake up time.   
  1. You can do the same to prepare your canine friend for different eating times. Their circadian rhythm tells their stomachs when it is time to eat. Start a few days earlier than Daylight Savings and adjust your pup’s eating times by a couple of minutes each day. By doing this, your dog won’t feel confused and aggravated and feel like he needs to beg for food.   
  1. To adjust your expected welcome home time, come home a few minutes later for a few days. Gradually transitioning the time will lessen your pet’s anxiety of wondering where you are.   

  

In any transitional situation, your pet’s expectations are the most important place to start. When you notice Daylight Savings coming up on your calendar, think ahead and give your pet a little extra attention. Absorb the extra cuddle time and enjoy your extra hour of sleep. At Pet Butler, we understand how important your pet’s expectations and schedules are. That includes the expectations of a clean yard to play in. Call the pet waste experts for a quote. We understand that consistency is key for your pets.   

   

   

  

 

 

Reduce Pet Anxiety on New Year’s Eve

Dog Behavior

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No time is more fun (and stressful) than the holiday season. Super-charged with anticipation, the rush of Black Friday shopping, and capped by the ball drop as we ring in the new year, our bodies are in physiologic overdrive. Our pets also react to stress and the irregular holiday schedule with elevated heart rates, cortisol dumps, changes in blood pressure, and increased anxiety. Regular exercise and meditation help humans release natural feel-good chemicals that can reduce the effects of holiday strain.  And we can assist our pets do the same by giving them a festive, safe, and stress-less New Year’s celebration with some safety essentials and having a coping strategy to guide them into the new year!

Establish Safe Spaces

First, make sure your pet has a calm place in which to retreat such as a kennel or a den created in a cozy bathroom or laundry room.  Loud noises which accompany New Year’s Eve celebrations such as fireworks, balloons popping, and the screech of noisemakers can startle dogs. Owners often think of their fearful pets during a thunderstorm or 4th of July celebration but forget about the excessive holiday cheer.  Offer the same safe space with insulated walls and few exterior noises or the comforting pressure of a thunder shirt during the chaos. Ask “Alexa” to play Classical Music for Pets.  She will happily oblige (I recommend Canon in D).

Partygoers may inadvertently leave exterior doors open or meander into unmarked rooms looking for the lavatory or another bottle of champagne. Make sure your pet is secure in their space and their haven is clearly marked with a hanging sign reading DO NOT DISTURB.  If the ringing doorbell triggers your dog, you may want to indicate guests to knock first or just walk right in if your pet is behind closed doors.

Get Active Before the Festivities

Other ways to assist your pet navigate the transition into the new year include giving them room to run prior to being kenneled. A good romp in the snow, a game of fetch, or a pre-party outing at the dog park can work wonders at reducing energy and tension. Natural stress reducers include not only exercise but calming pheromones such as Adaptil collars and plug-ins, Composure Pro supplements containing L-tryptophan and L-theanine, and supplements containing valerian root or Bach flower essence. If your dog is overly stimulated and anxious by the time New Year’s Eve rolls around (and aren’t we all) talk to your veterinarian about prescription medications to provide relief. It is never in your pet’s best interest to ignore symptoms of stress; they rely on us to provide a safe environment and meet all their physical and emotional needs.

Keep Human Treats Out of Reach

Noisy revelers often snack on chocolatey desserts or drink alcohol while celebrating. Make sure all treats and snacks are out of reach. Alcohol consumption by dogs, even just one mixed drink, can lead to depression, an unsteady gait, vomiting and in some cases, a serious drop in blood pressure and body temperature. As marijuana consumption, especially in the form of edibles, becomes more commonplace, pet exposure has substantially increased. The National Animal Poison Control Center educates owners on the side effects of ingestion which may include drowsiness, unsteadiness, a decrease in heart rate, and possible seizure activity.  If you suspect your pet has consumed any known toxins such as alcohol, chocolate, marijuana, human medications, or foods containing raisins or sugar substitutes, call your 24-hour veterinary clinic or the APCC right away at (888) 426-4435.

As I get older, the thrill of staying up until midnight has diminished. Instead, I like to snuggle on the couch with my pups, watch a movie, share a few bits of popcorn or pretzels, and give them some extra love.  My furry family appreciates it!

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