by Ashley Demers
I think most of us wish we could retire this minute and spend a lot more time with our pets. Who among us animal lovers doesn't wanna be a stay at home pet parent? ;) But for those who have to work full time, life can be ruff. And sometimes we just can't bring our dogs with us to see friends or leave on day trips. So when we can't be with our dog, what's the longest they can wait for a potty and some company? What do the pros say?
Well, there is no clear definitive answer. But what we do know is this:
Puppies and seniors will typically need to have potty breaks every few hours (and a puppy's potty needs depend on age). Adult dogs can typically hold their bladders for up to ten, sometimes even twelve hours. However, doing so regularly can increase the risk of your dog developing issues like UTIs, urinary crystals and stones. For optimal urinary health, dogs should have constant access to fresh water and regular breaks to urinate.
Aside from the physical needs that dogs have, we can't forget their emotional and mental needs, they are very social animals. They form incredibly strong attachments to their humans, and they actively desire our company. Dogs, like children, have an "emotional cup". They need daily exercise and/or some form of mental enrichment to keep them as happy and calm as possible. Have you ever heard the saying "a tired dog is a 'good' dog?" While no dog is "bad", it certainly rings true.
Dogs have richer emotional lives than we often give them credit for. Too much isolation leads to boredom, which can lead to anxiety, nuisance barking, hyperactivity, and destructive behaviour. Take for example an energetic breed that has been under-stimulated for an extended period, and is just let out of a crate after 8 hours- it could be over excited, even beyond threshold and unable to obey basic commands. Anxiety, stress and isolation can also worsen reactivity and even fearful aggression in some dogs.
The general consensus among veterinarians and trainers is that four to six hours is a comfortable range for most dogs. After the six hour mark, a dog is likely to need to get outside urgently. They may also be getting bored and lonely. Many of us can't get home during the work day to let our dogs out, so what to do?
Mental Enrichment
Puzzle feeders or frozen stuffed Kongs can help reduce stress when you leave, as can making sure someone will visit.
Hired Help
Ask a trusted neighbour to pop in, let your dogs out, and feed or water. This is a great job in the summer for older kids and teens. You can also hire a professional dog walker or pet sitter in your area.
Dog Daycare
For suitable dogs, a dog daycare setting is a great way to burn off some steam, socialize with other dogs, and hang out with people all day while having frequent access to potty areas in a safe and clean environment.
Kenneling or Boarding
Some folks choose kennels, and reputable kennels offer exercise outside of their actual runs in which the dogs are kept. There are also reputable boarding facilities complete with fancy suites!
There are definitely options to help keep our pups happy and healthy while we are gone, but the right ones depend on their individual exercise requirements and personalities, not to mention, our budgets.
We all have to work and leave the house without our pets.
If you ever need, Happy Tails is just a call or email away. We hope you'll choose us.
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