Since many have transitioned to working from home during the pandemic, you may have come across the running joke of referring to your animal companion as a co-worker. While you may be excited about being able to spend more time together, working alongside your animal friend can be an adjustment for both of you.
We asked Team MUTTS to offer tips and anecdotes about working from home with your animal pal at your side.
Remodel the Office
“Like nearly all animals, my two dogs (Jager and Holly) and my cat (Ava) are extremely routine-oriented. Every day, after the dogs’ morning potty break, they trot directly into ‘our’ office so we can get right to work. Ava is usually already there, waiting impatiently, ready to supervise. Because they like to stay by my side all day, I’ve turned my office into part workstation, part ultra-comfy animal oasis. When they’re comfortable, they’re happy — and less likely to mill about restlessly during conference calls!” — Ali, Director of Marketing
Stick to a Schedule
“Stella is the one who keeps me on schedule. At 7 a.m., she sits patiently downstairs until she gets her glucosamine pill. At 11:30 a.m., she barks once to tell me it’s time for her ‘green bone.’ At 5 p.m., she tries to climb up and wiggle into my lap to tell me it’s time to go for her walk.” — Dany, Content Strategist
Show Them Off
“Embrace it all! One of my first calls for another client included a conversation with a V.P. of Global Payroll at a major corporation. I was nervous about the call until they whipped out their cat and held them up to the camera. It turned out the cat’s name is Kaylee, just like my dog! It broke the ice and helped us both ease into the conversation.” — Nina, Communications Specialist
Keep Them Entertained
“My kitten loves attention. She’s also extremely active, and I’m not always able to stop working to play with her. To keep her entertained while I’m wrapped up with work, I make D.I.Y. yarn balls, which she loves. She enjoys jumping to catch strings, so I’ve hung a few yarn pieces on doorknobs for her to play with as well. I also make sure that she always has access to her box of toys. It’s a nice win-win for both of us.” — Brittany, Digital Marketing Associate
Take a Break
“I tend to get deep into my work and forget that time is passing. Our cat Jedi has a lovely habit of throwing books out of shelves, then flopping over and purring when you attempt to stop him. It’s a great reminder to get out of the chair and away from the screen to focus on what’s important: belly rubs!” — Elena, Art Director
An animal companion can be great stress-relieving company while you crank out tasks at work. Enjoy this time bonding with them. Does your co-worker also happen to be your furry friend? Tell us in the comments about your home office or your at-home work routines.
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