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"During this period of great uncertainty, one bright spot has been the incredibly passionate response from people willing to open their homes and hearts to foster and adopt vulnerable shelter animals," Pamela Reid, PhD, CAAB, Vice President of The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Behavioral Sciences Team, told Bored Panda in a statement. "At the ASPCA, we have seen a nearly 70 percent increase in animals going into foster care through our New York City and Los Angeles foster programs, compared to the same time period in 2019. Even in times of crisis, Americans are stepping up to show their commitment to animals in need."

Not all animal shelters expected this. "We thought people were going to bring their animals in and then run for the hills," Katy Hansen, communications director for the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), told Vox. However, the pandemic opened up an entirely new demographic of potential pet fosters: "The people that were filling up the applications were primarily millennials who lived with roommates. That's not a demographic that we usually see coming forward to foster because they're working and they live with three people." At any given time, ACC has over 600 animals in their care. Now, it's less than 100.

Reid also noted that it's important to think about the future when our regular work and school routines commence again. "Your dog or cat may be left confused (and lonely!) once everyone is rushing out the door instead of spending time at home. Even while you and your family are home, start to prepare your pet by designating time for them to spend ... alone throughout the day."

First, Reid suggested creating a cozy, inviting place for your dog or cat to nap away from all the activity of remote work and school. You can even put on some soothing music or radio. For example, there are Spotify playlists dedicated entirely to calming your pet.

"When giving your pet time away from you, offer your dog tasty chews to keep him busy. You can purchase all sorts of interesting and easily digestible chews online, such as bully sticks, tendons, tracheas, scapulas and cheek rolls," Reid explained. "Both dogs and cats will also be entertained for some time with an interactive food-puzzle toy."

Also, there are many free game apps for cats to play with on their own. Reid said you can also find battery-operated toys online that may keep your cat busy and happy on their own. "Leave your home and take a stroll outside without your dog occasionally to practice leaving the house for short durations. While you're out, leave your dog a chew or their meal in a puzzle toy to keep them busy and occupied during your absence."

Pets have kept us company for thousands of years, and they've been especially helpful during the quarantine, helping us manage our stress and anxiety levels. So let's try to put in the extra effort and help them transition back to normal life when the pandemic is over.

In times of uncertainty, having pets can be incredibly soothing and therapeutic. As seen in the story of Hayley with her Pomeranian and kitten, pets are more than just companions; they become family.

For those curious about how pets can positively impact our mental health, check out how animals help with stress by offering companionship and unconditional love, as detailed in this heartwarming tale.

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