THAT REALLY GETS MY GOAT
First thing you probably thought of when you heard the news is: what am I going to do when I go to work?
This is a really difficult one, because you can’t leave your pet in the cage and just jet off for the next 8 hours, so you really need to think about what your circumstances allow. Can you do some work from home? Is there someone that is available to pet sit if you need to go into the office? Can you and your partner work out shifts between the two of you?
Getting a system that works for all parties makes crate stay a lot easier and less stressful.
WILD GOOSE CHASE
Let your friends and family know what the situation is at home. One of the tips you could use is adding a note to the door explaining about your pet and asking people not to knock or ring the doorbell, but rather to give you a call. That makes sure your pet doesn't get too excited and maybe hurt themselves at the thought of newcomers.
Communicating to all around you can help create a calm and relaxed atmosphere in your home which is needed for you and your pet.
QUIT COLD TURKEY
There are a few things that might be more difficult to do (especially in the beginning). It’s best to stick to a routine around the house where your pet knows you are there and where they can stay calm and relaxed. This means, that you’re going to have to quit a few things, including movie nights, dinners out, etc. This can lead to feelings of claustrophobia and just needing to get out. So take breaks and ask your partner to pet sit while you have a drink with friends to just get out and visa versa.
WATCHING YOUR PET LIKE A HAWK
In the beginning it is really unnerving having your pet in a crate. Is your pet ok? Do they need a potty break? Are they thirsty? It becomes time consuming just staring at your pet and making sure that they are fine.
Speak to your Vet about a good routine regarding how many potty breaks or water breaks they need. Are they allowed to go on short walks, etc.? Getting all the info from the Vet helps you prepare the routine beforehand.
I know it seems like the 4-6 weeks are going to drag by, but don’t worry, soon enough you and your pet will be in a routine and you will be able to carry on with life around that routine.
LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG
Soon enough the crate rest will be over and your life will be back to normal. Let the cat (or dog) out the bag (or crate). Adjusting as pet owners to crate rest can be exhausting and frustrating. But making sure you understand the demands beforehand and setting up a routine that works for everyone in the house (including pets), will make the crate rest go by so much quicker. It will be over before you know it.
For any queries or questions regarding crate training, contact YOYO crates.
www.yoyocrates.co.za
[email protected]