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There are times when pet owners must be away from their fur buddies for personal or professional reasons. It's undeniable that these situations can be heartbreaking and challenging at the same time, not only for pet owners but also for the four-legged companion who is left behind, especially if you and your companion have formed a close bond and have become accustomed to seeing each other on a regular basis.
I usually find myself in this situation especially before the global pandemic began. I often had to leave home and travel to the city to continue my studies, putting my time with my pets on hold. It always saddens me whenever I have to leave them behind since it’s unknown when I’m going to see them again.
During the pandemic, I was able to have the opportunity to spend quality time with my dogs to catch up on the time I was away from them. Now that COVID-19 regulations are a lot less stricter than before, I unfortunately have to leave my dogs behind again while I return to the city for personal reasons.
When faced with the same circumstance, it is critical for pet owners to make several precautions and procedures. Here are a few suggestions I have kept in mind as I prepare to leave my dogs, as well as strategies to make up for my pets when I return.
Photo from Jaeson Almagro
Leaving Pet Behind
There is no specific step you can take to allow your pet to understand why you are leaving. Nonetheless, there are a few measures that pet owners may observe to aid their pets when owners are away.
Photo from Jaeson Almagro
One way to help your pets when you’re away is by simply asking family members to keep an eye on them for the meantime. Oftentimes, these fur babies also find themselves comfortable with the person caring for them because they know they are in a secure environment where they can run about, play, and sleep. Apart from that, pet owners must be confident in those entrusted with the pet's care since they know them well and are confident that the pet will be well nurtured and they will be kept updated about everything and anything that happens to their pets.
I say this from experience because I do entrust family members with not just keeping an eye on my pets but to take care of them as well. When I'm away, my parents will feed, bathe, and spend quality time with our pets. They do their best to treat my dogs the same way I do, including pampering them with treats and allowing them to sleep in the same room as them. My mother often sends video footage of our pets at home to keep me up to date on whatever they’re doing.
Photo from Jaeson Almagro
In line with asking family members to keep an eye on your pet while you're away, allowing them to visit other areas can help them enjoy themselves while you're gone. When I'm away and my parents are occupied, they frequently send a few of my dogs to see our relatives. Even so, I am still rest assured that my dogs are in a safe setting since they are already well-acquainted with our relatives. An added bonus is they also get to spend quality time with our extended family as well as meet and play with their pets.
Sometimes, my relatives would bring my dogs with them when they go for walks around the town. This can be a really fun exercise for your pet since it allows them to be in a pet-friendly environment where they can continue to practice similar patterns that they are accustomed with even when you are not around.
Reuniting with Fur-iend
Photo from Jaeson Almagro
Whenever I travel back home, one of the greatest things I cherish is watching my dogs joyfully rush towards me, wagging their tails from left to right, barking, leaping at me, and licking my face. And on the rarest (and funniest) occasions, nothing confirms their excitement more than a little pee coming out of them. When I get home, my dogs attach themselves to me, following my every step and being very attentive as I make my next move. As owners reunite with their furry friends, it would be best for them to make up for the lost time with their pets in the best way they can.
Photo from Jaeson Almagro
One approach to make amends with your pets is to spoil them. Treats, toys, and accessories can be given to them. Personally, I prefer to indulge my dogs with dog treats whenever possible. I think it's extremely adorable when I give them goodies because it makes me feel like I'm a parent giving my child an ice cream to cheer them up. Aside from that, when I offer my dogs treats, they are even more driven to eat their meals and perform dog tricks since there is a prize at stake. These treats would give my dogs essential nutrients while also improving their odor.
Photos from Jaeson Almagro
Spending quality time is another way to make up for lost time with these clingy fur babies. In this manner, you and your pet may continue with your usual routine. It's also worth mentioning that spending time with pets may boost your immune system, relieve pain, and even help you cope with loneliness and mental distress. I spend quality time with my dogs by chasing them around the backyard, giving them belly rubs, and snuggling with them even while they're resting. One of my dogs enjoys car rides, so every time I return home, I make sure to tag this dog along with me while I explore our hometown, including my grandparents' house, which this dog is always thrilled about.
Regardless of how long you are away from your four-legged friend, owners must always find a way to make up for the lost time. No matter how small or grand it is, because at the end of the day, just by you being there for them is enough.
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