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We all know the correct etiquette for online meetings, but there are still those moments of having to scoot your four-legged buddy with the zoomies out of the camera’s line of view, which doesn’t scream “please take me seriously” to your already busy colleagues.
Those who know us know that we would be the last people to get fussy about dogs interrupting online meetings – who doesn’t love a surprise furry visitor? In the same breath, we know that life gets complicated and between dropped calls, fuzzy connections and people forgetting to mute their microphones we can understand how a boisterous hound in the background might be off putting.
The zoomies are a real thing
If you’ve seen your dog get the zoomies before, you’ll know that they have no business doing it in the house. The proper term for the zoomies is frenetic random activity periods or FRAPS.
There isn’t a ton of research, but it is commonly thought that the zoomies help our dogs to expel excess energy, relieve some of their stress or anxiety or as a way of expressing excitement and handling play.
If you feel like having a laugh and getting that warm fuzzy feeling, we love this compilation of our furry friends getting the zoomies. You can check it out on The Pet Collective’s YouTube Channel.
Whilst your dog’s slightly irritating habits may not be as boisterous as a case of the zoomies, you still need to keep them entertained whilst you bring home the bacon (which I’m sure they appreciate), and here’s how we suggest you do it
Read this: How to stop your dog from jumping up (for good this time)
Have a dog-zone
Your home is your dog’s home too and it’s nice for them to have a place they know as their own. Let them know that this is their safe space to sleep, rest, play and take their time chewing a treat. Consider purchasing a snuggly bed for them to nap on – they’ll be dosing for a lot longer than if they were taking a nap on the hard floor.
Include all their best toys and if you have the time and resources, consider a doggy-door. Doggy-doors give your pup a fun way to move in and out of the room in a way that is specially designed for them – they love it!
Get toys that take time
The toys that you’re going to give your dog whilst you work need to buy you a little time. If you don’t give your dog an activity, believe us when we say that they will find one for themselves (and that may just involve a few demolished lavender bushes and a mud-stained carpet).
If you need a point in the right direction, check out these 5 must-have dog toys to keep your active dog busy from My Dog’s Name
Shake the wiggles out
This is going to be as good for you as it is for your four-legged homie. Getting them out of the house for a walk or a ball-throw in the park will make a huge difference in your dog’s behaviour at home. Make your outings a routine so that your dog knows they will never be stuck indoors for too long.
We gathered together a few of the best dog-friendly hikes in South Africa, you can read them here.
Related: How to Stay Fit in Winter with the Help of Your Dog! 5 Easy Tips
Get everybody involved
Sometimes a dog will bond with a certain family member and that’s great (especially when you know it’s you). If you have other family members in the house, make sure they get involved. This will make sure your dog knows they can hang out with everybody in the house, taking some pressure off of you when you have meetings going on.
This is also clearly a great way to let your kids get the most out of the online-school experience. Giving your pet the tools to put their best paw forward when you’re busy with work is going to make both of your lives much calmer.
At the end of the day, your dog loves you more than anything and knowing that you’re around the corner is sometimes just too exciting for them to ignore. Hopefully, they enjoy these tips as much as you do!
Read next: What Does Dog Insurance Cost?
Yours in Not-So-Average Pet Advice,
The Petinsurance.co.za Team
