Pets give us emotional support, company and often times are crucial for maintaining our physical and mental health.
However, they can be a bit of a hassle to take care of, especially when you’re busy working from home.
While your pet may be ecstatic about having you around all day, you may not be able to spend all of your time with them.
As convenient as working from home may be, you still need to maintain some facade of professionalism from time to time. And part of that process involves keeping your pets in check.
Here are some ways you can work with home if you have pets running around.
How to Work from Home with Pets
Play with Them Before Work
Pets usually crave our attention early on in the morning, so entertain them for a bit before clocking in.
This way, they won’t miss you as much while you spend the rest of the day locked up inside a room.
Remember to periodically check in on them throughout the day, too. They are probably confused why you’re at home but not spending all of your time with them.
Holding and petting your pets can also help you cope with workplace stresses, so, that’s a bonus.
Close Your Door
We’ve seen it so many times on television.
Newscasters presenting the latest updates on current events before their cat jumps in front of the camera.
It can be endearing to viewers, but you don’t want any distractions, especially if you’re in an important business meeting.
So, make sure you close your door before starting any important work.
Keep Them Entertained
Pets will often need something stimulating to play with throughout the day.
A lot of people are very creative with how they entertain their pets while they’re away at work.
Pet toys are a hit or miss. Some owners will literally buy an entire cat tree for their pet, and their cat will still go back to their favourite scrunchie.
Tire them Out
This isn’t as inhuman as it sounds.
Cats are usually mild-mannered and will leave you alone, since they value their own autonomy and privacy.
But dogs require plenty of exercise to work off all that nervous energy. So, wake a little earlier to take them for a brisk morning walk.
It will also give you an opportunity to get in your 100 steps a day. Staying inside all day will do no good for you health-wise, anyway.
Get Them A Buddy
If you can afford another pet, get your current one a play buddy, so they don’t feel quite so alone.
While pets usually find ways to occupy their time during your absence, they probably won’t leave you alone if they know you’re in the house.
So, getting them a sibling may distract them enough throughout the day.
But be sure you are mentally and financially ready for another pet. Don’t simply get another one just for this sole reason.
Conclusion
A pet’s life is significantly shorter than a human’s.
While they may only be in your life for a short while, to them, you are their whole world.
Take this opportunity to spend more quality time with them wherever possible.
That may sound counterproductive, playing with pets while you work; but as I mentioned, pets can greatly improve your mental health.
They can help reduce your blood pressure, alleviate depression and anxiety, and even reduce cholesterol levels.
So, while it may be necessary to quarantine them while you do important business, don’t forget to spend time with them as well.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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