How can we keep our pets happy and entertained while we’re away at the office or school during the day? We spoke with Dr. Debra Horwitz, a veterinarian and board certified animal behavior specialist, about some tips to not only keep pets active and satisfied while we’re away but also about how to make our time with our pets count.

GLOSS: Do you have any tips for keeping pets happy while owners are away for the day at work or school?

For dogs, it is imperative that they have ample time to eliminate and exercise before their owners leave for the day.  For cats, they need a clean litter box and a refreshed food bowl. After that, diversity is important, so while it may seem best to leave all the toys out, it really is best to rotate them every few days.  The appearance of another toy will be new and novel and stimulate more exploration.  For dogs, creating food puzzles that require them to work for their food fits in with their natural ability as scavengers.  Cats as well will enjoy playing “hunter” as they try to find the various food dispensing toys and then the challenge of getting the food out.

Make sure to create a safe environment for the pet while you are gone.  This might mean keeping windows and blinds closed so that dogs are not bothered by outside noises and engage in excessive territorial displays.  It is also important that dogs and cats are safely indoors while their owners are gone.  Be sure to always check toys for loose parts before giving them back to your pet and discard torn or non functioning toys and replace them with new ones.

GLOSS: How can a busy pet owner best make “quality” time with their pet?

The first step is to realize that the pet and their owner may want different things from their time together.  The pet owner may want cuddle time, petting and to just feel loved by their pet.  Many dogs and cats will want that too, but some of our companions also want to use their innate abilities to do “dog and cat” stuff.  For dogs, that might mean sniffing new smells, playing with toys, learning fresh tricks, going for a walk or playing fetch.  Toys that challenge their skills and mind create the type of quality time that most dogs will find quite satisfying. For a cat, that might mean running, jumping, chasing or pouncing.  Most cats are eager to exercise the hunter inside by chasing after a toy, working to get their food or climbing to a high perch. Any way that an owner can stimulate the feline and canine abilities will turn time spent with their pet into quality time.

GLOSS: As a consultant for the development of the Purina Pet Gear line, can you tell us why are accessories like these are important for pets?

Our pets live longer and healthier lives with the current advances in veterinary care and nutrition, coupled with the ability to live indoors and be protected from the world outside. However, they still are dogs and cats and have the need to utilize their strengths to do what they enjoy.  Purina Pet Gear accessories are designed to appeal to what the pet likes to do.  They help pet owners provide the type of entertainment, activities and stimulation that will be satisfying for their pets.  By creating pet friendly and people friendly toys, it takes the guess work out of how to keep your canine and feline family members happy, healthy and satisfied.  Not only will they be mentally healthier, the increase in exercise will help fight obesity that has become a health problem for so many of our family pets.