Working from home has become a trend and a habit for many of us in the past few years. Those who work from home are always looking for ways to create a comfortable and productive office space, and pet owners are no different. One important consideration when setting up a home office is how to make it pet-friendly. Whether you have a dog, cat, or another type of pet, there are a few simple steps you can take to make sure your pet is happy and comfortable while you're working.

 

Provide a comfortable place for your pet to rest

Your pet will likely spend a lot of time in your home office, so it's important to make sure they have a comfortable place to rest. You can do this by providing a snuggly bed in the office, or by allowing your pet to sleep on a blanket or cushion. It's also a good idea to place a few fun toys in the office for your pet to play with, as this will help keep them entertained and happy.

 

Make room for pet supplies

When setting up your home office, make sure to allocate some space for your pet's supplies, such as food bowls, toys, and grooming tools. This will not only keep these items out of the way and make your office look neater but also make sure your pet always has access to what they need.

 

Keep your workspace clean

A clean and tidy workspace is not only good for your productivity but also for your pet's health and well-being. Make sure to clean up any food or drink spills immediately, and keep the office free of dust and pet hair. You may want to invest in a good air purifier to remove any pet dander from the air.

 

Create "pet-free" zones

It's important to establish "pet-free" zones in your home office, where your pet is not allowed to enter. This might include areas where you store sensitive equipment, such as computers or cameras. It's also a good idea to keep your pet out of areas where you have important documents or other materials that could be damaged by pets.

 

Use pet gates

Pet gates can be a great way to keep your pet out of certain areas of your home office. You can use gates to block off access to certain rooms or to create "pet-free" zones within the office. Pet gates are also useful if you need to step away from your office for a few minutes and don't want to leave your pet alone.

 

Keep your pet entertained

One way to prevent your pet from being bored, and possibly destructive, is to keep them entertained with interactive toys, treat-dispensing toys, or puzzle feeders. Also, try to have regular playtime with your pet during breaks, this will keep them active and mentally stimulated.

 

Be prepared for an emergency

While you are working, it's important to have emergency plans in place for your pet. For example, if your pet gets sick or injured, you should have a list of emergency phone numbers, such as your vet's office, on hand. It's also a good idea to keep a first aid kit for pets in your office in case of minor injuries.

 

Consider getting a companion

If your pet is sociable and gets along well with other animals, consider getting them a companion. Getting another pet as a companion can help reduce anxiety and stress while you're away. If it's not possible to adopt another pet, try borrowing a friend's dog or cat for the day, or hire a dog walker to come by and play with your pet during the day.

Creating a pet-friendly home office requires a bit of planning and preparation, but it's well worth it when you consider how much happier and more comfortable your pet will be while you're working. By implementing some or all of our suggestions, you can ensure that your pet is happy and your work is not interrupted.
January 17, 2023