The Impact of Returning to Offices on Pets Left Alone

Malena DeMartini, a dog trainer specializing in separation anxiety, has seen her workload increase as the shift back to office work creates challenges for pets accustomed to constant human presence. After spending months with their owners at home, many dogs now struggle with being left alone when their humans are summoned back to the workplace.

DeMartini cautions that making this transition without prior preparation can be difficult. She urges pet owners to consider their furry companions and recognize that this change will be significant.

The Pandemic's Pet Acquisition Boom

During lockdowns, many individuals saw the opportunity to adopt a pet, given the increased time available at home. According to Tori Fugate from Shelter Animals Count, adoptions and fostering offers exceeded the number of available shelter pets.

However, many new pet owners did not anticipate the long-term needs of their pets, nor did they foresee the eventual return to more typical work routines.

Seeking Solutions in a Changing World

As life transitions back to office routines, pet owners find themselves facing challenges. With companies like AT&T and Citigroup calling employees back to the office, there is a growing wave of pet-related anxiety. Many pets are not prepared to be alone, prompting their owners to seek solutions like pet daycares or dog walkers.

Kate Meghji from the Humane Rescue Alliance notes that many pets haven’t learned how to 'be a dog' on their own, creating anxiety for animals and owners alike.

Creative Coping Strategies

Doggy day care can be an option, albeit a costly one. For instance, services like District Dogs charge around $50 a day, making it an unsustainable solution for daily needs. Finding someone to care for the dog without cost, such as a neighbor or community member, may offer a temporary fix.

Unfortunately, if adjustments can't be made, some pets might end up in shelters. Fugate emphasizes that financial struggles and housing restrictions often contribute to this outcome.

Preparing Pets for Alone Time

It's crucial for dogs to become accustomed to being alone for periods. DeMartini suggests gradually increasing alone time, likening the process to exposure therapy, where short intervals eventually lead to longer ones.

The practice of crate training is also encouraged, giving dogs a designated safe space even when outside the crate remains an option. This can assist in easing anxiety related to solitude.

Understanding and Managing Separation Anxiety

Pets demonstrating behaviors like barking, destroying household items, or attempts to escape might have separation anxiety. Cameras can help identify if these behaviors are anxiety-related or simply boredom.

In cases where anxiety is diagnosed, solutions may include providing engaging toys, seeking companionship for the pet, or in some instances, prescribed medications.

Overall, the transition back to office work doesn’t have to result in a crisis for pets or their owners. With some preparation and creativity, both can adapt to the changes amid continued demands from workplaces to return to traditional settings.