One of the reasons most people are reluctant to have a dog is that they are too busy. But, what if we told you that the key to a happy life is in proper organization and time management? If you’re busy and you’re also a dog owner, here are some tips for your to optimize your life and prioritize your dog’s needs.
1. Know your schedule
Busy people are aware of the fact that they have so much on their plates. They choose to do as much because it’s in line with their goals, ambitions, and plans. That’s why they need to know their schedule so that they can fit everything else around their constant busyness. So, if you belong to the team busy, and you’re also a dog owner, you need to know your schedule.
2. Plan your day ahead
When you know your schedule, you’ll know how to make plans which prioritize the well-being of your dog, their needs, and requirement. If you plan your day, you can also plan your dog’s activities in your day. So, your schedule won’t just serve your dog. You’ll also carve out time for quality time with your dog. Also, when you master the art of scheduling and planning, you’ll know how to plan the time for yourself and other important people in your life.
3. Build a routine with your dog
With time management and planning skills, comes building a routine. Dogs need a routine so that they can anticipate events, get their needs met, and feel less anxious. A routine is especially important for busy people because routines help them lead an organized life.
Your dog will get used to its routine, so work on building routines around walking, training, feeding, and playtime. By doing this, you’ll ensure that your dog is happy and that you’re in control of your life, no matter how hectic it can be at times.
4. Prioritize their needs
Dogs have needs and their needs are dependent upon their owners. So, it’s up to you to prioritize their needs and meet their needs. When you’re in charge of your schedule and your time, you can work on building consistent daily routines. In turn, this will make it easier to meet your dog’s needs.
Your dog needs regular walks which they also use to urinate and for other physiological needs.
You should aim to take your dog out every six to eight hours so that they can relieve themselves. Apart from daily needs, you also need to prioritize your grooming and trips to the vet. Also, ensure they have enough toys so that your dog can entertain themselves while you’re at work.
5. Have a plan B
A plan B is necessary because things won’t always go according to plan, so you might not be able to prioritize your dog’s needs. In these situations, a plan B for you is to have a reliable dog daycare on speed dial. People in Australia are known for their love of dogs. There are many dog owners out there who successfully juggle their busy life and keep their dogs happy. They usually book dog daycare in Adelaide or other cities so they know their dog is being taken care of in a great environment. Their dog will get a chance to play with other dogs in a safe environment, while you deal with your busy schedule.
6. Their outside time is your break time
Dogs need to be taken outside regularly. They will use these walks to go to the toilet and to exercise. Ideally, your dog needs between one and two hours of activity a day. These numbers can vary, but you should know that this is the amount of activity your dog needs every day.
This is also great for you, especially if you’re busy. Busy people rarely have time to exercise, so you can use your dog outside time to take a break from work and get those daily steps. You’ll probably drop a few kilos, and your dog will also be happy, healthy, and satisfied.
7. Train your dog
Just like your dog can benefit from clear feeding, walking, and playing routines, you can also teach them a few things. If you properly train them to respect your boundaries and house rules, you will create a clear household hierarchy. In turn, your dog will know when you’re not at home and they’ll stay calm and they’ll also be more confident.
8. Prepare dog entertainment
Dogs, just like people can get bored. This is especially true if you’re not paying attention to them because you’re busy. One of the ways to keep your dog entertained is to provide dog entertainment. There are many dog toys out there, so they won’t suddenly decide to chew on your carpet because they have a toy for that. There are so-called chew toys that can keep them entertained for a while. There are also treat balls which they need to work on to get some treats. Also, have some plush toys to keep your dog company and some balls they can also chew on and run around with.
9. Take your dog with you to the office
If you’re one of those lucky people who work at a pet-friendly office, use this to your advantage. If you can take your dog with you to the office, take them with you. Your dog might have an impromptu play date with your coworker’s pooch.
Not only that, but you probably have a colleague or two who adore dogs, but they don’t have their own. They will play with your dog during their breaks, so you can use this to take a break of your own or focus on another work task without worrying about taking your dog outside. Of course, this is only an option if your dog is friendly to other people and other dogs. Teaching your dog a few commands like sit or stay will come in handy in these circumstances.
Lastly, remember that sometimes you won’t be able to pay as much attention to your dog because of your busy schedule. But, make it up to them on other days when you have more time. In the meantime, your dog will get all the attention it needs at a dog daycare.
