The Pandemic Pet Surge and the RTO Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a significant surge in pet ownership, with many people adopting dogs and cats during the lockdowns. As people spent more time at home, they found companionship in their pets, which became an integral part of their daily lives. However, with the return-to-office (RTO) mandates, these pets are now facing a new challenge: separation anxiety. As owners return to their offices, pets that grew accustomed to constant companionship are struggling to adapt to being alone. This transition has led to a crisis for both pets and their owners, with many seeking help from dog trainers, daycares, and other pet care services.

Malena DeMartini, a dog trainer specializing in separation anxiety, has seen a significant increase in clients. She emphasizes the importance of preparing pets for alone time, stating that it’s crucial for their well-being. Many pet owners, however, were unprepared for this transition, leading to a scramble for solutions such as doggy daycares, pet walkers, and treat-dispensing cameras. DeMartini advises owners to start training their pets to be alone now, before RTO mandates become more widespread.

Why Pandemic Pets are Struggling

The pandemic pets, many of whom were adopted during the lockdowns, have never experienced being alone. Adrienne Preuss, owner of Animal Loving Care, notes that these pets were constantly with their owners or in daycare, leaving them unprepared for solitude. This lack of alone time has led to behavioral issues such as separation anxiety, which manifests in barking, howling, destruction of property, and even escape attempts. Kate Meghji, COO of the Humane Rescue Alliance, succinctly puts it: "Dogs don’t know how to dog," highlighting their inability to cope with being alone.

As RTO mandates intensify, with companies like AT&T, Citigroup, and Dell requiring full-time office presence, pet owners are increasingly concerned. Jacob Hensley, founder of District Dogs, has seen a surge in new clients, particularly when major companies announce RTO policies. This trend underscores the broader impact of RTO on pet care, as owners seek solutions to ease their pets’ transitions.

The Rise of Pet Care Services

In response to the growing need, pet care services are booming. Dog daycares, boarding facilities, and remote training sessions are in high demand. District Dogs, for instance, opened a location near Amazon’s HQ2 to accommodate employees returning to the office. Companies are also exploring partnerships with pet care providers to offer benefits to their employees, recognizing the challenges of balancing work and pet care.

While these services provide relief, they come with limitations. High costs and the need for socialization make doggy daycare less accessible for many. Additionally, not all dogs thrive in daycare environments, especially older dogs or those with behavioral issues. This highlights the need for creative solutions, such as involving retirement communities or asking friends and family for help.

Challenges and Economic Hardships

The economic impact of pet care is significant, with costs for daycare, walkers, and supplies adding up quickly. For many, the expense is unsustainable, leading some to rehome their pets. Shelter Animals Count reported an increase in pet shelter intake, though not directly linked to RTO mandates. Economic factors and housing issues are more common reasons for pet relinquishment, underscoring the broader challenges pet owners face.

Despite these hardships, most owners are committed to their pets, seeking solutions rather than rehoming. Emily Stewart, a senior correspondent at Business Insider, notes that while some owners may hesitate to adopt again due to past challenges, many are dedicated to finding ways to coexist with their pets in a post-pandemic world.

Expert Solutions and Strategies

Experts recommend various strategies to help pets adjust to alone time. Crate training, gradual exposure to solitude, and establishing routines are key. Katherine Houpt, a professor at Cornell University, suggests using cameras to monitor pets and identify true separation anxiety from boredom or other issues. Medications such as fluoxetine and clomipramine are also effective for severe cases, though they should be used under veterinary guidance.

Preventing separation anxiety involves simple yet effective methods. Teaching a dog to stay, starting with short periods and increasing gradually, helps build confidence. Ignoring the dog upon leaving and greeting calmly upon return can also reduce anxiety. These techniques, while requiring patience, can make a significant difference in a pet’s ability to cope with alone time.

Long-term Implications and the Future

The push for RTO is not diminishing, with employers seeking to restore pre-pandemic work norms. Employees, however, are resisting, valuing the flexibility of remote work. Pets are caught in this tug-of-war, but proactive steps can mitigate the impact. Training pets to be alone is not just about RTO mandates; it’s about enabling owners to lead normal lives without their pets suffering.

As companies continue to push RTO, pet owners must prepare. Whether through daycare, training, or creative solutions, finding ways to support pets during this transition is crucial. Employers and employees alike must recognize the challenges and work towards solutions that balance work requirements with pet well-being. The future may hold more RTO mandates, but with preparation and understanding, pet owners can navigate this new landscape, ensuring their pets remain happy and healthy.