We’ve started to get the ‘look’. You know the one I’m talking about. Rover stands at the entrance to the living room staring longingly at us relaxing on the couch. It’s early evening, a normal time for both of us to be home. But, as we all know, the last couple of months with many stores, activities and workplaces observing the new Covid social protocol… have been… different. We are spending a lot more time at home.

Dear Mum & Dad: You know I love you. I give you lickies and shower you with attention every time you arrive, open the treat jar or I hear the jingle of the walkie leash. But seriously, these last couple of months, while nice for awhile, have become madness! I seriously miss my leisurely 4 hour afternoon naps. Please. Get. Out. Of. The. House. I need to get some zzzz’s. XOXO, Rover.

Rover’s Diary

Rover doesn’t want to know why. He doesn’t care. For the first couple of months, life was great. Extra walkies, extra attention, extra treats, extra games of fetch in the backyard. It has become clear that he misses his alone time. That longing stare that says ‘What are you STILL doing home? You know I can’t nap deeply when I have to keep entertaining BOTH of you… All. Day. Long!‘

New Problems – Old Routines

There are two kinds of problems for our furry friends given the new social norm in many homes. The first is spending too much time together – or rather, more time than Rover is used to. The second, the possibility of not enough time when life returns to normal and Mum and Dad are back to their usual routines. For the majority of people who have arrived in 2020 with existing pets, they are used to the old routines. Change is tough, for us, and our four legged buddies.

A new trend has also developed in the adoption and pet fostering space. Local animal shelters are quiet, at least for dogs. Gone is the barking madness and howls of the many roommates dogs endure while in transition housing. It’s a good thing, if it lasts… for both dogs and humans. We’ve been adopting and fostering pets at a rate not seen in a long time. Rumors are that many shelters report multiple applications to foster or adopt a single dog.

How Has Your Home Life Changed with your Pet During Covid?

What routines have changed in your home during Covid? Is Fido endlessly happy with the extra company? Does Fluffy know that you need to be left alone while you are busy tapping away at your laptop? Does Barkley feel the need to express himself loudly while you are on that important Zoom call?

Join the conversation below with your experiences. How have you and your fluffy roommates adjusted?