Working from home has its benefits: not being stuck in traffic while commuting, no waiting in line to use the microwave, and being close to our pets! But sometimes having the company of our furry friends during working hours can be distracting. Check out these three tips for helping manage your furry coworker.
#1: Encourage your pet to provide their own entertainment with food puzzles
While your adorable pooch popping their head in on your Zoom meeting may make your team break into laughter, non-stop barking during a meeting is a different matter. When you know an important call or virtual meeting is coming up, set you and your pet up for success with a food puzzle or long-lasting treat. Plan ahead by freezing a Kong stuffed with canned food, kibble, fresh veggies, or yogurt mixture. The frozen concoction will last your pet longer, ensuring they won’t interrupt your meeting.
#2: Use your pet’s natural soothing abilities to battle stress
Pet ownership has been shown to lower blood pressure, calm cardiovascular issues, and reduce stress and anxiety. Simply being in the same room as your furry pal can calm your heart rate after an argument with your boss, and hugging and petting your four-legged friend can soothe away your stress and anxiety. Other coworkers cannot claim these benefits!
#3: Take a quick play break for mental and physical health
Have you been staring at the same blank screen or stack of paperwork for the past half hour, with zero progress? Get up and get moving with your furry coworker, to bolster your endorphins, and get your creative juices flowing. A brief break to play with your cat’s favorite fishing pole toy, or to walk your dog around the block, will provide a much-needed energy boost, and propel you out of your mental slump.
If you have any questions or concerns about your furry coworker, contact us for help.