A survey conducted by OnePoll for PetMed revealed that 40% of pet owners would accept a lower salary to work from home and be closer to their pets. The pandemic-inspired work-from-home trend has provided remote workers with a unique opportunity to remain productive and accessible to employers while maintaining a bond with their pets. While the new idea of returning to the workplace gains momentum, many employees working from home and their pets are already experiencing separation anxiety.
“This study confirms what we already know: People love their pets and love being with them,” said Matt Hewlett, President and CEO of PetMeds. It's about prioritizing.” “What is surprising is that many pet parents report their own separation anxiety and feelings of loneliness when they are separated from their pets. We emphasize that they play a vital role in
Some pet owners returning to private rooms may consider installing nanny cameras or hiring a pet sitter to address their pets' anxiety levels, but former employees who worked from home may The remedies available to many are limited. Reuniting with your pet after work hours can be an important part of your day.
How owners can reconnect with their pets
The OnePoll/PetMeds survey also revealed that pet owners prefer ways to reconnect with their pets after taking time off for work. 64% of respondents said their girlfriends spend more time with their pets one-on-one after returning home. Reporting “conversations” with pets is also popular, with 61% giving their pets special treats or rewards for good behavior.
Anxious pets often respond to physical contact from their owners. More than half of those surveyed reported hugging and grooming their pets. Going for a walk or exercising at the dog park are also common habits for owners and pets.
39% of pet owners report watching TV shows or movies with their pets to help them feel better after a long separation. Teaching your pet new tricks and participating in obedience training were also mentioned. 18% of pet owners claim to regularly take photos or videos of their pets to post on social media. In search of the ultimate bonding experience, 16% say they take their pets with them on trips and vacations rather than traveling with them or hiring a pet sitter.
Common separation concerns for working owners
While work-related separation may be inevitable for many pet owners forced to return to the office, there are also common concerns about changes to daily life.
52% of pet owners surveyed are worried that their pets will suffer from loneliness or boredom while they are away from home. Nearly half also worried that their pet would experience severe separation anxiety while they were away.
Pet owners also expressed concerns about their pets having access to food and water during work hours. Her one-third of respondents mentioned accidents that caused health problems or emergencies. Pets may also find a way to escape from their enclosure because they become lost or disoriented outdoors.
Some pets who suffer from separation anxiety become more aggressive or destructive. 25% of pet owners reported fear of property damage or injury caused by stress or loneliness. A smaller proportion (14%) expressed concern about others mishandling or injuring their pet.
How to deal with separation and other pet concerns
Separation anxiety can be a physically and mentally debilitating problem for pets, and it's your responsibility to address the problem before it becomes dangerous. 72% of pet owners use calming methods, such as petting and cuddling, to cope with the effects of separation. Spending more time in active play, along with providing plenty of snacks and snacks, can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Providing a safe and comfortable space for your pet is also a common solution for 42% of pet owners surveyed. Unusual sounds and street noises can cause anxiety, so playing soft background music or white noise can help mask unwanted sounds and promote relaxation.
For more severe cases of separation anxiety, 16% of pet owners report using veterinarian-prescribed medication for the problem behavior. These mood stabilizers and anti-anxiety medications are an effective way to calm anxious pets during extended absences. Another approach is to use calming clothing such as a thunder shirt or compression vest. Pets often respond to the feeling of being held tightly when they are feeling anxious or anxious.
Will working pet owners be allowed to leave the house again?
The transition from remote work to an office environment is already difficult for pet owners, but a change in routine doesn't have to be as stressful. Many pets recover from the initial shock of a breakup and adjust their habits accordingly.
Time spent away from the owner can be time spent sleeping, eating, and exploring. Reuniting with your favorite people at the end of the day is a reward in itself. As long as pet owners take concrete steps to minimize separation anxiety, returning to work shouldn't be a traumatic experience for pets or owners.
