Success in the Routine

Just as there are certain routines we as people get accustomed to, so too do our animal companions. For some people, the morning routine begins with the coffee brewing, the newspaper unfolded; for others it’s getting quickly dressed, feeding the pup, grabbing some coffee and heading out for a walk; for some it begins with stretching, turning on a tv or music station and then continuing on through the morning setup. If you have pets, they get used to your routines as much as their own. They consider these a regular day in the household.

Now you decide to head out of town, often their wakeup, food and play schedule is shared. However, whomever is checking in on your pets is missing a key piece of the equation. Knowing what music, you listen to or your typical tv times during the day can help keep them calm too as it is part of the puzzle. This goes for cats as much as dogs.

Recently I was a pet companion for a feline whose parent was out for surgery and rehab. I would play some instrumental music I had during our visits.  When I began playing some symphony style music, she laid down near me, relaxed and actually napped.  Her dad listens to that particular style, so it was actually very calming and soothing for her.

When you have someone visiting with your pets, every bit of knowledge: your basic schedule, theirs and what sets them off (i.e., thunder, lightning, loud noises, the pool or yard people, other animals), all is important to helping those visiting with your animal companions keep them at peace while you are away. For many pets, they have become your shadow following you everywhere and experiencing everything you do, firsthand, like they themselves are doing it.

Setting up all parties for success is important and the key is in how much information about the routine you provide.