Symptoms of separation anxiety among dogs whose owners are returning to work have been well documented – but what about behaviour issues around visitors after such a long period without them?
According to Vet’s Kitchen the sudden return of visitors to the home after 18 months of relative isolation can cause anxiety and reassurance may well be required.
“Covid-19 has changed the way everyone has lived and many people are finding understanding the relaxing of restrictions a struggle… this includes our four-legged family members!” said Laura Shears, managing director of Vet’s Kitchen. “We’ve been thinking about how we can help our nation’s pet owners with their own ‘roadmap out of lockdown’, which is why we have released a support-guide to help pets adjust to life after covid.”.
Now Vet’s Kitchen has created a five-point plan ‘with a cheeky nod to Boris Johnson’s roadmap out of lockdown’, to help owners make sure their pets are reintroduced to the world gently and without risk. This means laying the foundations with some coping mechanisms and lots of strokes and reassurance.
Fiona Firth, Vet’s Kitchen pet nutritionist, said: “Being plunged into the deep end in terms of socialising again will be fine for some dogs, just like it’s fine for some humans, but others could suffer from the shock of too much stimulation and will need to take things more slowly.
“We’ve got used to existing in a closed family group and our pets especially aren’t used to sharing! This particularly applies to new puppies who might have joined the team during lockdown.
“Our new Vet’s Kitchen slogan for pet owners is CALM, SPACE, PACE!” Laura continued. “When reintroducing your dogs to the big wide world, always remember to stay CALM, keep SPACE from others, and watch your PACE!”
