So things have changed around your home and maybe your pup is noticing. You are not alone. The world has been shaken up by COVID-19 and our pets are experiencing this shift just as much as we are. Even if this just means that they’re enjoying the opportunity to stare at you all day, chances are their routines have changed along with yours.
Even the energetic shift many of us experience has an effect on your dog. In fact, dog experts agree much of our dog’s perception of us has to do with our energy*. So even if your routine is the same, the energy is palpable to your pup.
We’re needing to adapt our pet care practices to suit dogs in a time of distress. Exercise is just one component of a dog’s health – they also need social time, structured activities, and consistent grooming to keep them feeling their best.
After several weeks of being cooped up inside, you may be itching to get your dog back to their playgroups. But the question that’s lurking on everyone’s mind is, do the same social distancing rules apply to my dog?
What the Experts are Saying
Each of the leading global health organizations has published pages on domestic pets and COVID-19.
World Health Organization:
CDC: Covid-19 and Animals
AVMA: About COVID-19
While the consensus is that risk of dog-human transmission is low*, and that there is no evidence that the disease can be transmitted via pet fur*, we need to care for our dogs while also caring for ourselves and our community members. What does this mean?
How to be a courteous dog owner during corona [INFOGRAPHIC?]
- Wave at other dogs and owners from at least a 6 ft. distance
- Keep your dog leashed on outings to prevent unnecessary interactions
- Pick up after your pup and dispose of their poop in a trash can
How to promote your dog’s health during covid-19
At fitdog, we promote dog’s health through a balanced schedule of play and train activities. But if you can’t get to our Santa Monica facility, you can still maintain some practices at home:
Mental
- Did you know that 15 minutes of mental exercise is the equivalent to a 3-mile walk?* Break up your day with 15-minute training sessions. It will give you a break from your computer, and your dog will be satisfied for a good while after.
Physical
- Dogs require 3 hours* of rigorous exercise per day. Not only does this promote their physical health, but it’s vital in maintaining their mental health as well.
- Aside from exercise, grooming is extremely important for your dog’s overall health.
Related article: Owner’s Guide to At-Home Grooming
Emotional
- Dogs are naturally social creatures. If you’re able to support your local dog care business and sign up for group outings and hikes, it will do your dog major good to get out their zoomies while hanging with some friends. Or, if your dog has a buddy you can have an outdoor playdate with while maintaining social distancing, it will help lift their spirits.
Fitdog & COVID-19
We asked, and you answered. Due to “pupular” demand, grooming, sports classes, and training are returning to Fitdog with our reopening!
