5 Essential Tips to Keep Your Pets Happy and Calm While You're Away
Leaving your furry friends at home while you step out, whether for a few hours or a longer vacation, can often be a source of anxiety for both pets and their owners. At Funky Bunch Pet Care, with over 13 years of experience in dog walking and pet sitting in Springfield and Sedalia, MO, we've supported thousands of pet parents through this journey. Understanding the need for peace of mind, we've compiled our top recommendations to ensure your pet remains happy and calm in your absence, catering to both dog and cat owners. Our approach combines our vast experience with a touch of compassion, aiming to make the separation less stressful for your beloved companions.
1. Engage Their Minds with Puzzle or Lick Mats
One of the best ways to keep your pet engaged and mentally stimulated while you're away is through puzzle toys or lick mats. These tools not only focus their attention but also provide an enriching experience that can significantly reduce anxiety. For dogs, hiding treats in a puzzle toy can turn mealtime into a stimulating game. Cats, on the other hand, may enjoy a lick mat smeared with a bit of their favorite wet food or a cat-safe treat. This not only keeps them busy but also satisfies their natural instincts to hunt and forage.
2. Calm Them with Pheromone Diffusers
Creating a calming environment is key to reducing stress for your pets. Calming diffusers that release pet-specific pheromones can mimic the natural way animals soothe themselves, providing a serene atmosphere without the need for heavy medication. These diffusers are especially beneficial during your initial days of separation or if your pet is prone to anxiety. They can make a significant difference in how your pet perceives the empty house: not as a space of solitude, but as a safe haven.
3. Soothe Them with Human Voices
The sound of human voices can be incredibly comforting to pets. Leaving a TV on channels like HGTV or the Home Shopping Network, or even a radio tuned to a talk show, can create a calming background noise that mimics the hustle and bustle of a home filled with people. This simple practice can help alleviate the feeling of loneliness and provide a familiar auditory presence for your pet.
4. Limit Their Access to Unnecessary Rooms
Curiosity can lead pets into areas where they might find trouble. By keeping doors closed to unnecessary rooms, you're not only preventing potential mishaps but also creating a secure and controlled environment that they can feel comfortable in. This step ensures their safety and your peace of mind, knowing that they're in a space where they can't get into things they shouldn't.
5. Practice Separation in a Low-stress Manner
Gradual introduction to time apart can significantly ease the stress associated with separation. Start with short departures, gradually increasing the time you're away. This practice helps them get used to the idea of being alone without feeling abandoned. It's about building trust and reassurance that you will return, making each separation easier over time.
At Funky Bunch Pet Care, we believe in a thoughtful approach to pet care that prioritizes the emotional and physical well-being of your pets. By integrating these practices into your routine, you're not just preparing your pet for times when you're away; you're also enriching their overall quality of life. Remember, a calm pet is a happy pet, and a happy pet makes for a happy pet parent. Trust in our years of experience to guide you through this process, ensuring that your time apart is as stress-free as possible for both you and your beloved companions.
