With many businesses contemplating returning employees to the office, it will come as a big surprise to many pets that you didn’t quit work just to be home with them.

Working from home has wrought many changes, from your work schedule and family dynamics to a new daily routine. Perhaps your daily dog walks begin later and have become more frequent, or playtime now occurs throughout the day. Whatever the case, over these many months, your pets have likely grown used to your constant presence and extra attention.

The abrupt change in schedule and extended separation resulting from your return to the office will require some preparatory steps to make sure that the transition is a smooth one for your pets—and, more specifically, your dog(s).

Six Ways to Ease the Transition

There are a number of things you can do today that will prepare your pets for your return to the office.

1. Establish a new routine. Dogs like routine, so begin shifting the daily routine to reflect what it will look like once you begin going to your workplace. For example, instead of playtime at multiple times throughout the day, schedule playtime during the evening at a time when you know you’ll be home.
2. Ignore attention-seeking behaviors. With your presence in the house all day, your pet may have developed a habit of seeking your attention throughout the day (and likely getting it!). Start ignoring such pleas for attention to prepare him or her for the days without you that lie ahead.
3. Practice separation. Preparation for extended separation can take several forms, from training your pet to stay in a room alone and leaving the home for increasingly lengthening time periods to feeding him or her in another room so he or she can learn that separation can be an enjoyable experience. If you plan on crating your dog when you go to work, now is the time to slowly reintroduce him or her to the crate. After each separation, be sure to reward your pet with a treat.
4. Walk your dog before work. A vigorous walk will help tire your dog and keep him or her from missing you.
5. Leave your dog with things to do. Whether it’s a rawhide, treat-filled Kong toy or an engaging “puzzle,” your dog will appreciate having something fun to do to pass the time.
6. Hire a dog walker. A walk during the middle of the day can go a long way in helping dogs cope with your long absence.

Finally, pets can get depressed, so if you find your pet is acting out or listless, be sure to consult your vet.

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