Challenges you and your best friend face working remotely

Remote working has been on the rise over the last few years. The COVID-19 pandemic caused it to skyrocket out of necessity. Many people are now choosing to stay remote or practice a “hybrid” work schedule. As of January 2021, 4.7 million people were working at least some of the time remotely.

Working from home allows you to have more flexibility, and it can even boost productivity. Plus, it allows you to spend more time with your four-legged friend if you’re a pet owner.

But, it may not always be easy trying to do your work with a dog or cat lying quietly at your feet. They might require more attention, and you might have to put them through other life transitions you’re dealing with, like moving.

Let’s cover some of the new challenges you might be facing while working remotely and how your dog will fit in.

A change of scenery

Almost 16 million people moved during the pandemic. That probably seems like a lot during a time where people were told to stay at home. But that’s exactly the point. Most of the moves were people moving from big, crowded cities to more rural areas. Some of the benefits of doing so include:

• Fresh air and an opportunity to connect with nature
• Quieter
• A slower pace
• Fewer people
• Safety

One of the reasons more people were able to move was thanks to remote working. You can live anywhere while keeping your job. Some people also moved out of necessity if their hours or salary was cut and needed a lower living cost.

If you’ve recently moved or you’re considering it, it’s important to understand the stress it might put on your pet. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. By keeping a few tips in mind, you can make it a more comfortable experience for them. The most important thing is to understand their needs.

When you move into a new place, try to keep your pet in one room to get used to it. Make sure they have their favorite toys, a bed, and even something that smells like you. Slowly, you can start to introduce them to more areas of the home. It can also help to crate train them, so they have a safe place to go. If your pet has a pre-existing condition (an injury or illness), make sure you speak with their vet before you move and connect with a vet in your new community right away. It can be worth investing in pet insurance in your new location if your dog needs considerable medical care.

Separation anxiety

Whether you move or stay in your current home, you’ll quickly start to feel like your pet is a co-worker. They might be the only ones with you throughout the day while you’re sitting at your desk, shuffling to the kitchen, or taking a break. Chances are, your dog will love the fact that you’re home more often. But, it can make the time you’re away from home seem worse. They might even start to develop separation anxiety.

It’s a common behavioral problem, and thankfully it can usually be managed. Your dog might need some time to adjust to the “new norms” in your living situation, especially if you’ve moved to a different location.

If you have to leave the house and your dog has started to exhibit signs of separation anxiety, there are things you can do to help them (and yourself). First, don’t make a big deal when you leave. Say “goodbye” to your furry friend long before you go, and don’t hype them up before you walk out the door. Stay calm and assertive as you leave. Your dog will pick up on that energy. Since you’re the “pack leader,” they will follow your lead and stay calmer.

Start with smaller “trips,” spending just 5-10 minutes out of the house to see how your dog does. When they start to see that you’ll always return, some of that anxiety can fade away until you’re able to leave for longer periods.

Dealing with distractions when working remotely

Your pet might not be the only one facing new challenges while you’re working from home. It can be tempting for you, as their owner, to get distracted by their presence. They might demand your attention or you might just be susceptible to giving it to them whenever they’re around.

There is nothing wrong with having your dog nearby while you’re working. But, if your furry friend is going to distract you from your job, it’s best to keep them in a separate area. One of the most important things you can do when working from home is to strike a healthy work-life balance. It’s a key factor whether you have a pet or not, but it becomes even more important when your best friend is involved.

Not sure how to find that balance? Try some of the following tips:

• Establish a daily routine
• Set specific working hours
• Have a dedicated office space
• Take breaks throughout the day

Part of your routine might include going for a long walk in the morning with your canine companion. As the old saying goes, “a tired dog is a well-behaved dog.” If your dog is tuckered out, they’ll be less likely to demand your attention so you can get more work done throughout the day.

Working remotely requires discipline and dedication no matter where you are. Having your furry companion by your side can add comfort and reduce your stress levels while you’re working. But, be prepared to tackle some of these new challenges so you both can enjoy your newly remote environment.

Dan Matthews is a writer with a degree in English from Boise State University. He has extensive experience with nose boops and chin scritches. You can find him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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