Caring for your pets during coronavirus

Did you know that your pets react to times of stress, fear, and sickness, just like you do? Pets love structure and schedules. When everyday routines disappear, your pets can become disoriented and look to you for answers.

I have noticed the quality of life deteriorating for my two dogs, Miss Sugar and Miss Cookie, after Coronavirus came into town. Sugar and Cookie have picked up on my anxiety and now they are not the happy pups they once were six months ago.

We all go for our walk in the morning, but it is now a cautious and careful walk. It used to be that the only thing I had to worry about was traffic. Now, I actively search the ground for soiled masks and disposable gloves that have been discarded along the roadside.

I am also leery of other people and other dogs because no one is safe from the Coronavirus. I now carry my dogs when I am walking through the lobby or anywhere there is a lot of foot traffic. My dogs just look at me like, ‘when will this all end so we can get back to normal’?

I know this, my dogs are my comfort and my sanity. They have provided me with unconditional love and for that reason alone, I will always protect them from all harm. People who have pets live longer, that is a fact.

“The right kind of touch can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels. It stimulates the hippocampus (an area of the brain that is central to memory).” The touch of a pet can also drive the release of a host of hormones and neuropeptides that have been linked to positive and uplifting emotions.” wrote Maria Konnikova in the NEW YORKER and I wholly agree with her assessment.

Stay safe and protect your pets from unsanitary conditions while walking and give them even more love and attention at home.

Follow my hashtag #ReadToKids on social media.