Let’s look at an all too common situation, you have your dream dog, but you also have your dream job.  It can be hard to find a balance between the two, or even hard to give both the adequate attention needed in order to be successful at either.  Here are OllyDog’s suggestions for finding balance in your busy life.

Establish a routine

I know it might be hard to peel yourself out of bed an extra 30 minutes early to walk your dog, but trust me, your pup will be so grateful.  Take them on their favorite walk in the morning, let them do their business, and enjoy it--you are getting fresh air for yourself in the morning, something that will prove valuable at work.  

Additionally, feed your dog at the same time every day, try to get home at the same time, and have a general routine you aim to follow.  As a working professional, it might be hard to commit to this, but your dog understands your routine, and if you leave them for longer then normal, they will know.

Commit to doing what you can

If you are one of the fortunate folks who is able to go home during your lunch break to take your pup on a walk around the block, you know they will appreciate it.  But if you are not able to do that, don’t stress. It is not worth attempting to jet home, giving your dog haphazard walk, dashing back to the office and then ultimately returning late.  You are not giving either area of your life the attention needed, so just commit to what you can.

Hire a dog walker

We all know that dogs are pack creatures, so if you are leaving your dog home alone for 10 hours a day, every day, they might not love it.  There are an abundance of dog walking companies and apps.  If you do not want to put man’s best friend in the hands of a stranger, talk to your neighbors or friends and set your dog up with a companion.  We love seeing our friends, and our dogs are no different. If they have a dog friend they love, try and leaving your dog with another animal so they can play and get their energy out, so resting seems like a treat not simply something to pass the time.

Let go of your guilt

Worrying about your dog while you are at work, and feeling guilty that you are not spending time with them, is not going to get you anywhere.  Focus on work while you are there, and with your dog when you are at home. 

Let us know how you balance work and your dog by using #OllyDog on Instagram