companions: home alone

Companions

home alone

by gerri reid, dvm

It’s Back to School time for mostly all Schools. Gone are the days we would have most of August to still enjoy a vacation or a day at the pool. It is time for Back to School Nights, shopping for school supplies and preparing our children for the upcoming school year. Some people have adopted new pets or maybe a new kitten/puppy over the summer. Our pets have become adapted to everyone being home more and being on a whole different routine. So how do we help our pets adjust to our new schedule?

Here are some suggestions to help your pet adjust a bit. Many people each day take their pets for a walk in the morning/afternoon and evening. Even our children can get involved and walk the pets during the summer. As we go back to work and school, these daily walks may not be possible. I recommend to consider a Pet Sitter who will come daily and provide your pet with a walk and some playtime. This service is especially good for young dogs/puppies as continuous potty-training is essential. Businesses such as this will come and do a Meet & Greet and discuss their services as well as meet your pets. .

Just like we take our children to daycare, many people will also drop off their pets at a doggy daycare. Places such as Dogtopia offer daycare services where your pet can enjoy a day of playing with other dogs. Whether you need to drop your pet off for a few hours or for most of the day, Dogtopia has packages for any budget. They have daily fun activities for your pet such as pool parties and an outdoor area for your pet to run and explore. If your pet enjoys playing with other dogs, then consider a Dog Daycare type setting. This will keep your pet happy and safe while you are at work and of course, your pet will certainly enjoy it!

For you Tech-savvy pet owners, there are some nifty ways to keep your pet entertained. Furbo Dog Camera with Treat tossing is new on the pet scene. This device will detect when your pet is barking and send a notification to your phone. The camera, day or night, allows you to see what your pet(s) are doing throughout the day. It allows you to talk to them to calm them or just to say “Hello” plus you can fill it with your pet’s favorite treats and “Toss” one to them! All these features with just a touch of a button from your phone. It is also Alexa compatible. This is perfect for pet owners who want to keep an eye on their furry ones!

Nowadays, we don’t have to worry about our pets being left at home. From pet walkers to doggy daycare, your pet doesn’t have to just sit at home and wait for you. Technology has allowed us to monitor or talk to our pets from the comfort of our office and even reward them without us even being there. As we venture back to work/school, there is something out there to fit your pet’s needs. Gone are the days of our pets being left Home Alone!

Dr. Gerri S. Reid is the Owner/Veterinarian of Reid Mobile Veterinary Services. She can be reached at 540-623-3029 or reidmobilevetservices.com or facebook @ReidMobileVetServicesa