Realistic Advice for Dog Parents Who Work Full Time

Being a dog mom is one of the most rewarding experiences in life.

The unconditional love, companionship, and joy that our furry friends bring is truly priceless.

However, being a full-time dog mom while also juggling a full-time job can be quite challenging. In this blog post, I will share my personal experiences and tips on how to successfully navigate the world of being a full-time dog mom and a full-time employee.

The Balancing Act

When I first became a dog mom, I was overwhelmed with the responsibility of taking care of another living being. I have other pets in the home but they do not require nearly the same level of attention and care. I had a demanding job that required long hours and a lot of mental energy. Balancing my work responsibilities with the needs of my beloved four-legged companion seemed like an impossible task.

One of the first things I learned was the importance of establishing a routine. Dogs thrive on routines and so I do. I made sure to create a schedule that allowed me to spend quality time with my furry friend before and after work. Realistically, what this meant was optimizing zoomies time in the morning while I get ready and feeding the dog immediately before I left. A lot of dog owners get up at 5am and walk their dog, then play with their dog, feed their dog and then somehow still make it to work by 7am. That is admirable but not currently attainable for me. I am lucky enough to have a partner who is able to handle all that if I am at work, but some days he is not available and we need to plan around that.

I invested in an indoor grass patch for the apartment so she can relieve herself even if we do not go on a full on walk (the brand I use is fresh patch) It is a bit of a hassle to get her out the door as she requires booties, a coat, a harness, and there are several sets of stairs to even exit the building.

My employer does not allow dogs in the building and does not have a flexible scheduling option due to the nature of my job. I knew my dog would be at home majority of the time and I specifically chose a breed that does not have high exercise needs. I also recommend getting an older dog, or connecting with animal shelter to find a dog that suits your lifestyle the most.

Coming home From Work to a Hyper Dog

Dogs are naturally curious creatures and can easily get bored or seek attention. Especially with me being gone most of the day, naturally my dog wants to play and jump. I established a routine where I spent majority of my time with her after work. Some days I am drained and other days I am open to running around at the park with her. Remember that training is highly stimulating for dogs and you can keep your dog stimulated without spending hours at the park. Finding stimulating activities to do at home are also necessary if you live in an area with harsh weather. I live in Chicago where we have pouring rain, snow, wind-chill, and in the summer it gets extremely hot and humid. Neither my dog or I tolerate extreme weather well, so finding ways to play fetch, tug-a-war, training, or puzzles indoors is needed for those days.

Finding Support and Budgeting

Being a full-time dog mom and employee can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it's crucial to have a support system in place. Whether it's a partner, family member, or a trusted dog walker, having someone who can help take care of your furry friend when you're unable to be there is invaluable.

I was fortunate to have a supportive partner who shared the responsibilities of being a dog parent. We divided tasks such as feeding, grooming, and vet visits, which made it easier to manage our busy schedules. I also found a dog daycare that I trust and my dog absolutely adores. Is a good break for my partner and I, as well as a great opportunity to get those zoomies out for her. If you are in Chicago, I highly recommend this small business!

My dog does not like dog walkers and only walks with my partner or I, but we have had pet sitters in the past through Rover.com. That is also a great option if you want in-home care when nobody is home. All these options do come at a cost, and my dog is not in daycare on a consistent schedule nor do we always hire sitters. I purchase these services for her when possible and necessary but I dedicated a lot of time to crate training and establishing a routine where she gets majority of her play time in the afternoon.

Self-Care for Dog Moms

Amidst the hustle and bustle of being a full-time dog mom and employee, it's essential not to forget about self-care. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your furry friend.

One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is to spend quality time with my dog outdoors. Going for long walks by the lake, or listening to music at the dog park while she explores are great ways for both of us to de-compress. One of the main reasons I got a dog, aside from the cuteness, is that I wanted a companion who will push me to spend more time outdoors. It helps with my mental health and lets me unplug for a bit. My dog is still young and in training. Walks are not always perfect, and she pulls, and is sometimes reactive to sound or stimuli. It is important to breath through those moments because I am not perfect and neither is my dog. We have many more years together to figure out some of this leash training stuff.

Being a full-time dog mom and a full-time employee is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor. However, with proper planning, communication, and support, it is possible to find a balance that allows you to cherish the joys of being a dog mom while excelling in your professional life.

Remember, being a dog mom is a privilege, and our furry friends bring so much happiness into our lives. Embrace the journey, make the most of every moment, and enjoy the unconditional love that comes with being a full-time dog mom.