Comic # 10 - The Humans Work The Pets Play
Written by Cristina Byrne | Illustration by Sarah JL Mapes
I don't know about you, but I have wondered what Shea and Pan do when they are home alone.
I am sure that they are aware of the absence because of the evidence of trash being all over the floor. I wonder why Shea doesn't go through it when I am around…? Its because she knows she isn't supposed to but does it anyway.
I've gotten into the habit of making sure that the bathroom door is closed to avoid having to clean up rubbish and the bedroom door so that she doesn't plop herself on the bed and, of course, on top of the pillows to leave hair everywhere!
For the most part, Shea, a mix of a Basset Hound and Labrador, is easy to leave at home alone, but some dogs are not.
First of all, "it's important to know that some breeds are more prone to separation anxiety than others. When choosing a dog, if separation anxiety is a concern, try to steer away from breeds such as labrador retrievers, german shepherds, and Australian shepherds. Dogs that can be left alone and don't suffer as seriously from separation anxiety include french bulldogs, chihuahuas, and basset hounds."
On the other hand, Pan isn't getting into the basura, and since he is a cat, according to Hillspet.com, "Cats who have been in your household for a few months or years may be perfectly happy home alone for 8 or 10 hours."
But some cats "may also become bored, lonely, or stressed. Signs like overgrooming or going to the bathroom outside the litter box, and talk with your veterinarian if your cat's eating or litter box habits change."
With dogs being a lot more maintenance overall than cats even when you leave them home alone… Pets, no matter if a dog or a cat needs it when you are away working to support them, is "a steady supply of food and fresh water just like any animal, so any pet left alone will need access to both."
For a cat, a clean litter box. For a dog, a peed pad depending on whether the dog is older or younger. Toys could also help with the boredom.
Dogs are considered pack animals and can naturally suffer when the owner or "alpha dog" is away. Even though cats may be quieter about their suffering, leaving a cat alone can cause boredom and anxiety.
So what exactly does Shea and Pan do when no one is around? I imagine they take advantage of all things "humans activities," such as eat in bed and watching endless amounts of Snoopy and Garfield!
