Due to the alarm status caused by the spread of the coronavirus, we are unable to walk the dog as much as we would like. However, there are many games we can play at home to entertain them.
We have long weeks of quarantine due to the coronavirus COVID-19. These measures aimed at isolation will be very tedious not only for people, but also for pets. In fact, many of them, especially dogs, are used to long walk in the park or in the countryside. That’s why in this article you will find tips for playing with the dog during the quarantine.
Then there are the animals like parrots or cats, which usually don’t go out and who will have their owners at home these days, so they will be even happier.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the state caused by the coronavirus or COVID-19 a pandemic. A pandemic (from the Greek pan – demos, “all the people”) occurs when a viral disease affects the human population worldwide.
The only way to prevent the spread of the virus is to stay at home and avoid contact with other human beings. This virus, although it can live outside the body for some time, needs man to transmit itself. Therefore, if we remain in quarantine, we will stop it.
The life of pets during quarantine
Before we start with our tips for playing with pets during quarantine, remember that there is no scientific evidence linking coronavirus infection to pets. However, some precautions should be taken.
When taking the dog for a walk, it is very likely that you will have to go through the common areas of the building. Remember to wear gloves or avoid touching things.
Once on the road, hold the leash with a maximum length of 3 meters, go at a slow pace and avoid letting go of the animal wherever it wants. Redirect the leash firmly, but gently, so that the animal does not get hurt and starts pulling.
Keep in mind that only one person can go out for a walk with the dog, collect the stool with a hygienic bag and dilute the urine with water and vinegar, when possible. You will not have to leave the animal free under any circumstances, as the road is not the right place and you may receive a penalty.
Once back home, throw the gloves away, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you want, you can also use a disinfectant gel.
Tips for playing with the dog during the quarantine
You must always play with your dog, even in a normal situation, where you can go out freely and there are no restrictions due to the coronavirus.
This is important to educate him, stimulate his sense of smell, teach him to stay calm and promote bonding. However, we will probably have more time available during the quarantine.
Games to stimulate the sense of smell
Games based on the stimulation of smell are essential for the mental balance of animals. This type of game favors the animal-master bond, promotes self-control, teaches how to manage frustration, and increases self-confidence and self-esteem.
One of the simplest games is to create a maze at home. Place obstacles such as chairs, tables, boxes, cushions and toys. So strategically hide bits of food and tell them to look for them. At first he may appear disoriented and not understand what he has to do, then you can guide him and show him where the prizes are.
On the other hand, if your pet is already trained in this type of exercise, you can hide his toys or even food in the house. Give him the order to “go hunting”: the search will keep him busy for a while.
Take advantage of mealtimes to make it play a little, so you don’t have to offer all the food together in a bowl. For example, inside a box, put rags and old clothes, newspapers, magazines, etc. and hide the croquettes among all the objects.
This will cause the dog to use his sense of smell to find out where the food is. If you take your dog out immediately after this exercise, you will notice that he will be much more relaxed on the street.
These types of games are the most tiring for a dog, much more than running, playing ball or interacting with other dogs, since fatigue is mental and not physical. In addition, they help reduce the animal’s stress levels.
Contact games
Since you can’t go out much, you can play games in the home with games based on physical contact. Lie on the ground with him, roll around, let him lick you and play with you as he would with another dog. However, if you find that your dog does not control his strength well during the game, it is better to use other games.
If you allow your dog to get on the bed or on the sofa, invite him to come up and lie down with you for a while, just caress him and enjoy his company. If you don’t like to get it on the bed or sofa, you can also do it on the floor.
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