Looking for ways to keep your dog and/or cat entertained while you work from home? We’ve got you. Keep your pets busy with these pawsome hacks.
Your furry members of the family are ecstatic that you’re home all the time and constantly want to play, which isn’t so great when it comes to meeting deadlines or trying to have a Skype with your boss.
It’s important for you to keep your pets entertained and out of trouble so that you can carry on with your day and work from home (yes, we are saying that you have to resist those puppy dog eyes and need for cuddles).
Plus, environmental enrichment is great for pets! Which is a fancy way of saying how you will create an environment for your pets to learn new things and entertain themselves. As our pets enter their golden years, creating a stimulating home environment will help prevent cognitive decline and prevent excess weight gain.
How to keep your pets entertained while you work from home
Turn on the TV
Turning on your TV is a simple and effective way to keep a number of pets entertained. Some cats love to watch bird documentaries and dogs love to watch a good puppy movie.
Exercise, exercise, exercise (this one’s for dogs)
The best way to tire out any dog (and keep them healthy) is to ensure they are getting enough exercise. It can be tricky to exercise your pets when you need to be near your desk during work hours, but there are still some fun exercises you can do indoors:
Run up and down the stairs with your dog
This will add an additional challenge to your dog’s workout (it’s also great exercise for you!). You can also stand at the top of the stairs and throw a toy down to your dog, when he grabs the toy, call him, and get him to bring the toy to you.
Set up an obstacle course in your house
Look for an old hula hoop, some cushions to create a tunnel, and create certain obstacles to help your dog to navigate around. You will need to lead your dog through the various exercises.
Hide treats in the house
Make your dog work for his treats by hiding them in places around the house. Under carpets, tables or behind rugs. You can also make your dog work for his treats using treat dispensing toys or something like a Kong.
Get your dog on the treadmill
If you have a treadmill in your house, you can use this to exercise your dog! First, get your dog comfortable with the sounds and smells of the treadmill when it is running. Next, place your dog on the treadmill (when the belt is not turned on) and give him a treat.
Then, turn the treadmill onto a very slow speed. Stand in front of the treadmill and reward your dog with treats for walking to make him feel more comfortable. When your dog is more comfortable, you can increase the speed gradually.
If you do have the opportunity to head to the great outdoors with your pup, check out these top 5 dog parks in Johannesburg.
Get a cardboard box (this one’s for cats)
We all know how much cats LOVE cardboard boxes (even if you did spend some big money on their luxury Egyptian Cotton bed).
Related: 8 Common Yet Strange Cat Behaviours Explained
Check out your storage room or garage to find a cardboard box. Cut a hole in the front of it, as a point of entry for your cat, and let her roam around it as she pleases.
Make your own cat toy
All you need is a feather, some string, and a rod. Tie the feather (or your car’s favourite toy) to the end of the string, attached to the rod. You can leave this next to your desk to entertain your cat.
We hope these handy tips help tire your pet out so they can have a little snooze and not distract you so you can be productive while you work from home!
Your Pet Insurance Family,
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