If you take a walk around your local area, there is one change in particular that you may have noticed during the last year. An increase in the number of people walking dogs. The UK has experienced a dog boom! Did you know that Brits have acquired 3.2 million pets since the start of the pandemic in March 2020? Dogs feature heavily in that number as many people have turned to them for companionship and mental health support during a time of social isolation. There are now approximately 12 million dogs in the UK. Despite some extraordinarily high prices being asked for puppies, this UK dog boom is set to continue for a while longer. But what happens when lockdown comes to an end and pre-Covid-19 activities resume? If you’ve acquired an additional canine family member during this time, we detail some simple things to put in place to ensure a smooth transition for you and your pup, when you can no longer be at home all the time.
Start training
If your dog has featured regularly in your work zoom calls and been with you all day (and in some cases all night) since you’ve welcomed him into your home, then being apart from you for long periods is likely to be a big transition. As part of your dog training, get your dog used to being at home alone for short periods of time. Starting this training now by gently easing your dog into these adjustments, will mean fewer separation issues when you have to be away from the house for work.
Set up play dates
Chances are that many dogs acquired during the pandemic have had very few opportunities to interact with other dogs. Now that people can meet outdoors once again, why not take the opportunity to meet up with other dog owners to get used to being around other people and other dogs.
Seek professional help
The full working day (without even factoring in the commuting time) is just too long for many dogs to be left at home to their own devices. Consider hiring a dog walker to either walk your dog mid way through your absence from home, or to check on your dog’s needs during that time. For particularly high energy dogs or those with medical needs, a doggy day care service may be a preferred option. For those whose dog is extremely anxious when left alone for even short periods of time, get in touch with an animal behaviourist for advice and techniques on how best to help you pup.
Equip your car for secure travel
During the pandemic your dog may not have spent much time in the car at all. When lockdown ends, you’ll be able to travel further afield for adventures with your dog. Ensuring your car is properly equipped is essential for the security of your pup and to ensure you don’t get fined or end up with points on your license. There are several options available, but a vehicle-specific barrier gives the versatility of a dog guard as well as a cargo barrier option for your other lifestyle needs.
Think quality not quantity
You may have been with your dog all the time during lockdown, but how much of that time was totally devoted to your dog? Although your time together will be reduced when you work outside of the home again, make sure that when you are together you spend quality time with activities such as training, games, and enjoying being with your furry friend.
