Physical (formerly known as social) distancing is important to keeping yourself safe and healthy. However, it can get lonely, and let’s admit, even downright boring staying at home. We at least have the ability to watch movies, cook, bake, and play games to keep us from going stir crazy. But what about Fido?

We must remember our furry friends during this isolation process. Filling their basic needs of shelter love and food, may not be enough during this time. Meaningful interactions and continuing to maintain social order in the home help keep your dog calm and less anxious through this big change in his life.

Routine

Routine is important for dogs. Now that we find ourselves at home for a large amount of time we need to establish new routines. Did you used to feed your dog every morning right after you showered? Maybe you can incorporate the same ritual but in different steps. 

Now that you are waking up later, you can feed the dog right when you wake up. This gives you time to hang out in your PJs and drink a cup of Joe before you shower. It may take some time for doggo to get used to, but in time he will realize this is the new normal. 

Walk

Although we are practicing social distancing, most of us in the United States are still allowed to leave the house recreationally. This means we can take a S-T-R-O-L-L! We have to spell the word “stroll” because the dog now knows how to spell walk, and knows what it means. Scary, sometimes, how smart they are, right?

If you decide to take that walk, be sure you pass people on the sidewalk with at least 6ft between. Do not go to dog parks, or other highly visited spaces. 

Play

Although we cannot visit public spaces like dog parks, it does not mean that Fido cannot get the excitement of play. They need the mental and physical stimulation in order to regulate their behavior at home.

A longer walk can tire Fido out. If you take a longer walk, be sure to listen to your dog’s body language and not expect too much from him in the beginning, if he is not in shape. Work up slowly to longer walks. 

For a change in pace, try a short activity at a higher energy level. Maybe you have been itching to dust off those old roller-blades, skate boards, or even bikes out for Pups to run beside. Be sure you teach him how to join you safely to avoid getting tangled up. Don’t forget your safety gear! While you both are having fun, be sure to pay attention to his body language to know when to stop, and let him set the pace.

Bath

Hygiene is imperative, more so now than ever, and not just for those of us without paws. A dog’s skin health is a big influence in overall happiness. Perhaps you took Puppers to the groomer every week. Now that you are sheltering in place, a trip to the groomer is not feasible. 

If an outside bath is possible, try to reduce water waste by running the hose in the lawn, or dumping bath buckets in the garden. Before putting the used water in the lawn or garden, check to see if your dog shampoo is safe for plants.

Perhaps an indoor bath is preferred. If bathing in a sink or bathtub, clean the surfaces after use and check drains for hair clogs. At my house, my husband has to pull out the big clogs – I just don’t have the stomach for it!

Treats

Speaking of stomach… It is hard to resist those puppy dog eyes! I know I have fallen victim to them plenty of times. But we must resist. In order to keep Dog at a healthy weight, we can not overdo it with constant treats. 

Encourage good behavior with treats. Use treats to teach a new trick or brush up on service dog assistant tasks.  As long as treat giving remains constructive, it is unlikely that you will overdo or over indulge.

Personal Space 

Personal space is something that is important to us all. Having the family home all day can be stressful on your dog. We need to respect their personal space as we expect them to respect ours. Love and affection is wonderful to give a dog again but make sure to notice their behavior and understand when they need a little bit more space.

A Brave, New World

We all wish that we could speak to our animal and explain what is going on in the world. We want to tell them that although we are stressed and scared there is no reason for him to be, because we will keep him safe. But we cannot speak to them, which is why it is so important to let our actions do the communicating.

It is a weird, weird world, and it is constantly changing. For the foreseeable future, this is the new normal. If we remain confident our furry family will settle in with us.

Because the best way to lead is by example.