Whether as a distraction, nuisance, or well-needed companion, pets are getting more time with their owners.

As shelter-in-place orders are established, more and more people are working and learning remotely. That means more time with family, and for many pet owners, it means more time with their animals.

Audrey L. ’26’s dog, Goldie, recently gave birth to a whole litter of Goldendoodles. With a greater amount of free time, the little puppies present a welcome way to keep busy. “We get to snuggle with them, watch them try and learn to walk, and take some very cute pictures and videos of them. We also get to bring them outside and watch them wrestle on the grass,” shared Audrey.

Some have wondered whether the pets themselves actually enjoy more time with their owners. In an ABC7 interview with Kathryn Horn—an employee of Paws and Cues Dog Training—Horn said,  “I suspect our pets are absolutely tickled to death. I’m actually worried about what happens when we leave the house again.” She recommends regularly walking around the block or getting out of the house without one’s pet to prepare them for the time when everyone returns to their normal schedules.

Chloe O. ’26 has enjoyed spending time with her new puppy Charlotte. “I have been walking around the neighborhood with her a lot and really enjoying this rare break that we have,    although it is not in the best circumstances,” commented Chloe.

The quarantine not only gives current pet owners more time with their animals, but has also led to several families getting a new pet. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Jack Hagerman, vice president at the Pasadena Humane Society, said there was a “massive uptick” in interest for adoptions.

For some adoptees, a new pet forces them into some sort of routine—whether that be feeding or walking their pet. For others, a pet acts as a source of comfort and distraction. Matt Bershadker, president and chief executive of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, explained to the Washington Post, “There’s no question that animals provide incredible comfort and companionship, especially during times of crisis—and they certainly appreciate the attention.”

Over break, Izzy B. ’23 and her family adopted a dog named Kat, short for Katherine. They were originally planning on getting a dog in August, but because the coronavirus gave them more free time, they decided on getting one sooner. “Also our older dog Dash is loving having us home to play 24/7. The only problem with doing work at home is they keep distracting me,” said Izzy, “If there could be one good thing to come from Corona then it would be Kat.”