How to Create a Daily Routine for Your Pet While You're at Work
If you’re a full-time worker and proud pet parent, you’ll know the morning goodbye glance from your furry friend can tug at the heartstrings. But here’s the good news: with a consistent, thoughtfully planned pet routine, your cat or dog can thrive even while you're hard at work. Whether it's ensuring regular meals, playtime or companionship, building a predictable routine is key. At Petdirect, we get pet—and we’re here to help make your time away from home smoother for both you and your companion.
Why Pets Thrive On Routine
Just like us, pets feel more secure when they know what to expect. Dogs and cats are creatures of habit, and having a structured day can help ease separation anxiety, reduce boredom, and even improve behaviour. Routine helps pets know when it’s time to eat, sleep, play, and get some attention. When you're away at work, a dependable daily plan lets your pet confidently manage their day until you return home.
Setting Up A Morning Routine Before Work
Start your pet’s day on a positive paw. A quick walk, play session or cuddle in the morning helps release energy and sets them up for a calmer day. Make breakfast part of your early rhythm using smart feeders to serve meals on time, even if you're in a rush. Many Kiwi homes already use pet cameras to peek in from the office and see their pet's happy routine unfold.
If your dog has energy to burn, a morning walk using a comfortable harness can be the perfect outlet. For cats, interactive toys like teasers and wands offer fun before you leave the house.
Keeping Your Pet Engaged During The Day
When you're away, mental and physical stimulation is vital. Dogs may enjoy interactive toys or KONGs filled with treats. For food-driven pets, puzzle feeders are a great way to turn snack time into brain time. Cats might love electronic cat toys or window perches to cat-watch the neighbourhood.
Some pets benefit from the soothing effects of calming supplements, particularly if they’re prone to separation stress. Products like pheromone diffusers or chews can gently take the edge off without drowsiness.
Meal Management While You’re At Work
Feeding on schedule builds a reliable routine, so automate it when you’re not home. Smart feeders are ideal for portion control and timeliness, especially for cats or smaller dogs who eat more frequently. Pair with automatic water fountains to keep hydration flowing during the hot New Zealand summers.
If you're keeping your pet’s health top of mind, explore our range of health supplements to support digestion, skin, coat, joints, and more. For picky eaters, food toppers can add excitement and nutrition to their daily meal.
End-Of-Day Connection and Enrichment
The best part of the day—for them and for us—is when you walk through the door. Make the most of it by engaging in a game with a favourite toy or cuddling on the couch. Evening walks, brushing sessions, or a small snack can recreate the consistency of their morning routine and help wind things down.
For dogs who tend to be a little too excited at home time, sprinkle training moments into your evening for mental stimulation. Check out our training accessories for reinforcements that make learning fun.
Consistency Builds Contentment
Whether you’re working nine-to-five or juggling hybrid flexibility, a well-structured routine is your pet’s best friend while you're away. It supports their emotional wellbeing, physical health and overall happiness. From meal routines to play sessions, there are plenty of tools available to make your hours apart easier on you both.
As New Zealand’s go-to online pet store, Petdirect is here to help with expert advice, a passion for pets, and pet-loving products delivered to your door. Explore ways to keep your pet engaged every day, and discover the benefits of our AutoDeliver service, Pet Perks loyalty programme, and Airpoints™ rewards on every eligible order.