Skip to content

Home Alone



Main Image
Item 1 of 24
 

By Liz Lyons with Photography by Liz Lyons and Cadence Captures

Over the past year many of us worked from home, held zoom happy hours and were generally at home more. Like many pets, my needy nine year old cat, The Dude, appreciated this sudden abundance of quality time. He really hates being alone. As people head back to the office, meet in person and travel, we need to understand how these changes will affect our pets.

“Many families have gotten a furry friend since the COVID-19 pandemic started, so as owners go back to work, it’s important that they set themselves and their ‘pandemic’ pets up for success,” said YoungWilliams Animal Center CEO Janet Testerman. “Creating a safe and comfortable environment at home can help ease the transition. Remember, returning to the office is an adjustment for everyone. People who need help caring for and keeping their pets can check out our resources at young-williams.org.” 

Tips for easing your furry companion into being home alone

Ease your pet into a new routine.
If you anticipate an upcoming change, such as a return to in-person work that will shift your pet’s regular routine, establish new habits in advance.

Avoid emotional departures or greetings with your pet.
Instead of a sad goodbye and excited hello, create a positive association with your exit. Reward your pet for calm behavior with a small, healthy treat as you leave.

Ensure daily exercise continues.
Even if your pet is a couch potato, a daily walk or play session is essential. Consider hiring a pet sitter or dog walker or asking a trusted friend to help.

More Stories

  • Latest Issue 3 23

    Read More
  • Editor's Letter

    Spring is truly the season of renewal. After a cold, harsh winter, nothing lifts our spirits like seeing early spring flowers popping up around us. As the weather warms and days get longer, our whole perspective shifts. During the winter months, I tend to hibernate at home as much as possible. Those that know me, know that my happy place is under a blanket with a book and some hot tea. Read More
  • Moxley Carmichael Promotes Maria McHale to Director of Client Services

    Maria McHale has been promoted to director of client services at Moxley Carmichael because of her exceptional service on behalf of the firm’s clients. McHale, whose previous title was senior account executive, handles key accounts for Moxley Carmichael, including UScellular, Hillcrest Healthcare, Young-Williams Animal Center and Priority Ambulance. Read More
  • South College Partners with Legends of Tennessee to Encourage Reading in Knox County Schools

    South College has partnered with nonprofit Legends of Tennessee to encourage reading in kindergarten through fifth-grade classrooms across Knox County. The program, which is called Reading Champions, pairs a University of Tennessee football player with a class for a 90-minute program that includes instruction, a chat about the importance of reading and lunch. Read More