As restrictions ease and Victorians transition back to normal routines, RSPCA Victoria is encouraging people to consider the welfare of pets to help them readjust to the changes too.
Despite the challenges the COVID-19 shutdown has brought to everyday life, many Victorians have been enjoying more quality time with their pets than ever before. Pets have been an important source of company, entertainment and emotional support during what has been for many, a time of great difficulty and stress.
As part of responsible pet ownership, it’s important to consider the emotional wellbeing of pets. While many pets have enjoyed a life full of company, many will need to readjust to spending more time alone as their owners return to work and school. This applies to pets who have been a member of the household for many years, and those who have just found their forever home.
To ease pets back into an old routine or introduce them to a new one, RSPCA Victoria suggests gradually implementing changes now to avoid confusing or overwhelming pets when they are left alone.
RSPCA Victoria Animal Behaviourist, Nikki Johnson says, there are several ways to prepare pets for their new normal.
“Just like us, our pets are creatures of habit. Create a routine that includes enrichment, rest, exercise and alone time during the day, putting aside time to head out of the house without them if you can. Creating the routine now and sticking to it while you’re still at home can help ready pets for when you’re not at home as much,” said Ms Johnson.
“Other helpful tips include allowing pets to sleep, leave them to rest and only ask them to play with you once they’ve woken up on their own. And try feeding them in a different room to you, this will help positively reinforce being away from you.
“There is such a thing as too many walks and even though we’re all tempted to take our dogs out for extra walks at the moment, please exercise your dog within their own capabilities and keep to an exercise routine that you are able to keep up once you return to work or study.
“Encourage pets to play with their toys and where possible, start rotating the toys frequently rather than leaving them out all the time as this will greatly increase the novelty value next time they are on offer to your pet.
“For dogs, think of some creative feeding techniques to increase the time and mental energy spent foraging and eating. “For cats, make sure there is plenty of entertainment such as climbing frames and toys, and always ensure your cat has a safe place to retire to, allowing them to feel comfortable and secure. “Most animals will settle well after exercise so before leaving your pet alone, schedule in some fun activities. Then allow your pet 15-20 minutes to wind down before they are left alone.
“If you know your pet is going to be anxious, synthetic pheromones can really help. Adaptil® for dogs and Feliway® for cats can be purchased online at rspcavic.org/shop. And if your dog barks when left alone, try playing soothing music or an audiobook while you are out.
“Now is a great time to invest in reward-based training and education that can be done at home, as many professional dog trainers have online resources and classes you can take advantage of. However, make sure that you only use trainers who use exclusively reward-based training methods and never aversive techniques or equipment.”
Research in the last few decades is proving what pet owners have always known anecdotally – pets aren’t just good, they’re actually good for people and can help improve quality of life including reducing stress, improving health and providing companionship.
Pets are also known to encourage activity and social interaction, help teach children about responsibility and provide companionship for those who spend considerable time on their own such as the elderly. In fact, pets appear to be the solution to reducing some of the stresses of modern living.
Animals are integral to the lives of Victorians – there are 6.7 million pet animals in Victoria so it’s imperative that pet owners ensure a safe and stress-free return to normal life as COVID-19 restrictions ease.
