City Services is reminding Canberrans to consider the impact their post-lockdown work patterns and lifestyles could have on their pets.
In a statement, the Directorate said it was important for pet owners to recognise the signs of separation anxiety in their pets and know how to look after them.
“While many of us recently had the pleasure of spending more time with our pets, it’s important to consider how they might be impacted as our lifestyles or patterns of work change,” City Services said.
“If you’re heading back to the office or out with friends, there are several things you can do to support your pets if they experience separation anxiety,” it said.
“Pets share they aren’t feeling great in a number of ways.”
City Services said this could include regular barking when home alone during the day; jumping the fence or scratching at doors to try to find their owner; or destroying toys or garden space.
The Directorate said pets would often appear withdrawn or flat when they were feeling stressed or anxious.
It said people could support their pets by playing with them before they went to work; taking them for a walk; creating a sandpit for enthusiastic diggers; getting a friend or dogwalker to take them out during the day; or providing sensory activities, such as hiding treats in the backyard.
City Services said pet owners could also make their own enrichment toys to keep pets entertained by placing treats and/or cooled rice in empty toilet rolls or cereal boxes.
