Despite the challenges the COVID-19 shutdown has brought to everyday life, many fur parents have been enjoying more quality time with their pets than ever before.

A rise in pet adoption rates since the start of the pandemic started show pets have been an important source of company, entertainment and emotional support during what has been for many, a time of great difficulty and stress.

But Ashleigh Hargreaves, an animal behaviour specialist at Warrnambool Veterinary Clinic, said as part of responsible pet ownership it was important to consider the emotional well-being of pets.

She said while many pets had enjoyed a life full of company, many would need to readjust to spending more time alone as their owners returned to work and school.

To ease pets back into an old routine or introduce them to a new one, Ms Hargreaves suggests gradually implementing changes now to avoid confusing or overwhelming pets when they are left alone.

"The best thing is to transition them slowly and ease them into it rather than being away from 9 to 5 suddenly," she said.

She said it was important to leave pets with something to do, such as scattering food around the backyard to sniff out, or putting food inside a toy to keep them busy.

"Separation anxiety is another concern, a healthy pet transitioned slowly should cope fine with returning back to their new normal, but pets who have showed signs of separation anxiety before or for new pets who have never had their pet parents going to work before it may be a real test for them," Ms Hargreaves said.

"If someone is concerned they should see their vet because unfortunately separation anxiety is a mental health disorder that affects how the brain functions and is not going to get better with time, it will likely get worse."

She said those concerned about their pet coping with the return to work should install an old tablet or video camera in the home to monitor their behaviour, or ask a neighbour to keep an eye on how they act.

"Pets thrive on routine and knowing what to expect, so have a good routine so they know what to expect in a day.

"Knowing when they will be walked and fed can often help them cope better."

RSPCA Victoria animal behaviourist Nikki Johnson said there were several ways to prepare pets for their new normal.

"Other helpful tips include allowing pets to sleep, leave them to rest and only ask them to play with you once they've woken up on their own. And try feeding them in a different room to you, this will help positively reinforce being away from you," she said.

"There is such a thing as too many walks and even though we're all tempted to take our dogs out for extra walks at the moment, please exercise your dog within their own capabilities and keep to an exercise routine that you are able to keep up once you return to work or study.

"Encourage pets to play with their toys and where possible, start rotating the toys frequently rather than leaving them out all the time as this will greatly increase the novelty value next time they are on offer to your pet.

"For dogs, think of some creative feeding techniques to increase the time and mental energy spent foraging and eating.

"For cats, make sure there is plenty of entertainment such as climbing frames and toys, and always ensure your cat has a safe place to retire to, allowing them to feel comfortable and secure.

"If you know your pet is going to be anxious, synthetic pheromones can really help. And if your dog barks when left alone, try playing soothing music or an audiobook while you are out.

"Now is a great time to invest in reward-based training and education that can be done at home, as many professional dog trainers have online resources and classes you can take advantage of. However, make sure that you only use trainers who use exclusively reward-based training methods and never aversive techniques or equipment."

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