Keeping Your Dog Happy While You're Away !

Dogs are social animals who thrive on companionship. However, work and other activities often require that they stay home alone. To ensure your dog stays happy and healthy during your absence, here are some tips and tricks, along with guidelines on how long you can leave your dog alone.

How Long Can You Leave Your Dog Home Alone?

Generally, it is recommended that dogs should not be left alone for more than 4-6 hours at a time. However, this can be challenging given the typical 8-hour workday. Some dogs can adapt to being alone for longer periods if they have ample access to fresh water and a place to relieve themselves, but it doesn't mean they enjoy it and it should be an exception.

Leaving your dog alone for extended periods can lead to separation anxiety, causing stress and behavioral issues.

Special consideration is needed for puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with medical conditions.

Puppies:

Puppies have small, weak bladders and need to be let out more frequently. Ideally, a puppy should not be left alone for more than 2-3 hours. Gradually increase the time you're away, starting with short 30-minute to 1-hour trips to help them get used to your absence.

Leaving puppies alone for too long can lead to separation anxiety, making them feel abandoned and causing them to develop destructive behaviors.

Senior Dogs:

As dogs age, they may find it harder to hold their bladders. You might not be able to leave them alone for as long as you did when they were younger. Senior dogs can also experience separation anxiety, feeling more vulnerable and distressed when left alone for long periods.

Dogs with Medical Conditions:

Dogs with medical conditions that require specific care or closer monitoring will need you to plan around their needs to ensure they receive proper care on schedule. These dogs are also at a higher risk of developing separation anxiety, as their medical issues can make them more dependent on their human companions.

Keeping Your Dog Safe While You're Away

To keep your dog safe and comfortable while you're away, consider the following:

• Close doors to rooms you do not want your dog in.

• Store food and treats out of reach to prevent overeating.

• Secure cleaning products and other chemicals to avoid accidental ingestion.

• Remove toxic plants such as lilies from areas your dog can access.

• Maintain a comfortable temperature in the house with AC especially in Florida.

• Provide lots of fresh water.

Using a Cage or Crate

If you use a cage or crate for your dog, it’s important to limit their time in it to a maximum of 4 hours during the day. Extended periods in a crate can cause stress and anxiety, especially if your dog is not accustomed to it.

At night, dogs can typically handle longer periods in a crate, as they are more likely to sleep through the night.

Hire a professional pet sitter

A great option for pet owners who need to be away during the day is to hire a professional pet sitter. A pet sitter can provide food, exercise and companionship for your dog, ensuring their safety and well-being.

A good pet sitter will walk your dog for 30 minutes and provide a loving presence while you are away. This helps keep your dog content and greatly reduces separation anxiety.

Make sure you choose a pet sitter who can bond with your furry friend and become their best friend while you're away.

As an independent pet sitter, I offer a unique advantage that larger franchises or pet sitting companies often struggle to provide: consistency.

When you entrust your furry companion to my care, you can rest assured that they will be cared for by the same familiar face – me – every single time.