How to help your dog adjust to the stay-at-home order and stay healthy
Many people are adjusting to sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic - working from home, helping children learn lessons taught online and preparing more meals at home.
Our dogs are adjusting, too. Most dogs prefer routines and our new "normal" is likely the furthest thing from normal for them.
They may be missing their daily exercise without trips to the dog park or doggy day care. This extra energy may lead to behavior changes like restlessness, destructiveness or increased barking.
If you (or anyone in your household) have not tested positive for or don't have any symptoms of COVID-19, take your dog outside in the backyard. If your dog is used to lots of physical activity, play a game of tag in the backyard. A game of fetch would be fun, too. If your dog is more of a couch potato, he will still benefit from a brisk walk around the yard.
Get some exercise inside, too. Try blowing some bubbles. Some dogs love to jump at and chase after them.
Play a game of hide and seek. Hide with his favorite squeaky toy and squeak it to help him find you. A low-calorie treat or a large dose of love can be his prize for finding you.
For more long-lasting entertainment, stuff a Kong toy with your pup's favorite kibble. Or how about a game of tug-of-war?
Practice his tricks. I know it's been a while since my dog has rolled over or played dead on command. Better yet, teach him a new one while you have the time. Even old dogs can learn new tricks.
A word of caution: If your dog is past due on his rabies vaccination, it is best not to go on walks around the neighborhood where he might come in contact with other people or pets. And even in your own yard, consider keeping him on a leash. The last thing you want to have to deal with during your shelter-in-place is a rabies observation. If you are not sure when your dog's rabies vaccination is due, give your veterinarian a call.
Dogs may be confused by having their owners home during the day. They are used to their own daily schedule - go for a walk, eat, nap, get super excited when owners come home, go for a walk, eat, sleep and repeat. Truth be told, your dog probably sleeps most of the day. Be sure to give him periods of alone time, too.
If he seems to want to be near you, but you are working from home, consider moving his bed next to your chair. When you take a break, one of the best ways for you and your dog to manage stress while sheltering in is to cuddle up on the couch and watch a movie or a read a book, while petting him, of course.
If, however, you have symptoms of COVID-19, it may be best to have someone else care for your dog while you are sick. While there is no evidence to suggest that dogs can carry the virus on their fur, being overcautious while doctors learn more about COVID-19 is important.
Be prepared just in case your pet needs to be cared for by someone else. Pack a bag with enough food and medication for two weeks along with a copy of your veterinarian's name, phone number and a signed document giving permission to treat your dog should he become ill or injured. Favorite toys or blankets should be sanitized.
Although China reported a dog of an owner who tested positive for COVID-19 also testing "weak positive" for the virus, the CDC has reported there is no evidence that any animals in the United States have contracted the virus. (The dog in China was quarantined and later tested negative.)
Most importantly, enjoy your time spent together with man's best friend.
• Diana Stoll is the Practice Manager at Red Barn Animal Hospital with locations in Hampshire and Gilberts. Visit redbarnpetvet.com, or call (847) 683-4788 (Hampshire) or (847) 422-1000 (Gilberts).