Assisting anxious pets

Our pets have become used to the regular presence of us, their humans. The return to the office disrupts their habits, just as it does for those of their ‘parents’. Photo: AFP

Many companies are now urging their employees to return to their premises on a regular basis, which is causing concern among pet owners. Indeed, with the pervasiveness of remote work, our four-legged friends have become accustomed to the regular presence of us, their humans. The return to the office disrupts their habits, just as it does for those of their “parents”.

Like babies, our furry companions can also develop separation anxiety. This disorder manifests itself as signs of distress and lack of engagement when the pet is separated from their main caregiver. This can even lead to the development of abnormal stress-related behaviours, such as excessive grooming, inappropriate barking and aggression.