How to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy During Quarantine
Yes, all this social isolation is challenging for our four-legged friends, too
Many pups are spending a lot more time with their staying-at-home humans, but as tail-waggingly awesome as that must be for them, they’re also surely missing their pals from the dog park or daycare. And that’s only one curveball this pandemic is throwing at dogs and their owners. Not to worry—Leya Ogihara, the founder of Dog City, a friendly neighbor of Hudson Yards, has some tips that will keep both of you safe and sane.
STAY HEALTHY
- Avoid strangers from petting your pooch, and stay away from public dog runs.
- Thoroughly wipe down your pet with a disinfectant such as chlorhexidine after you venture outside.
- Pay particular attention to the paws, theirs and yours; wash your hands thoroughly after the wipedown. Wash leashes and collars—as well as bedding, toys, and bowls—often.
KEEP ACTIVE
- Combat cabin fever with frequent walks. Local tip: In Central Park, dogs are allowed off leash between 9 pm and 9 am. That extra dose of freedom does wonders for canine health and spirit.
- If you can’t get outside, keep your pup active with indoor games like tug of war or hide and seek. Or run them up and down your apartment’s stairs.
BE HAPPY
- Surprise them with some new toys. You can fashion something infinitely attention-grabbing from egg cartons or cereal boxes, but you can go online to find stimulating toys, like Kong puzzles, too.
- You’ve probably been cooking up a storm for the people in your home. How about whipping up some homemade dog treats while you’re at it? There are tons of recipes online, and for sure, your pup will appreciate your quarantine-boosted culinary prowess.
Hudson Yards