Simple Ways to Entertain Your Dog While in Recovery

Hello Marlee and Me family!

It’s been quite a minute. This year has already been crazy, and somehow it keeps getting crazier by the day. Between work, personal projects, and a few exciting things that I’ll hopefully be announcing to you all soon, life has definitely been busy lately. I’m really hoping to become more consistent with this blog again because it has truly been one of my passion projects, and I’ve missed sharing me and Marlee’s adventures with all of you.

As I’m sure many of you know, the second you finally feel like you’re getting into a good groove, something happens to stall that progress. For me, it was my wisdom teeth.

Unfortunately, I had to unexpectedly get my wisdom teeth removed, and let me tell you… it was definitely an experience. Thankfully, my incredible boyfriend helped so much by taking care of both me and Marlee while I recovered.

The thing about Marlee is that whenever I’m out of it, she’s out of it too. She’ll lay beside me all day and barely ask for anything besides food and potty breaks whenever I’m not feeling well. It’s honestly one of the sweetest traits she has, and I feel very lucky because of it. But even though she becomes low-energy with me, I still feel guilty knowing I’m not fully giving her the enrichment and activity she normally deserves.

So today I wanted to share a few simple things I like to do when I’m sick, recovering, overwhelmed, or just physically unable to keep up with our normal routine. Hopefully these ideas can help you too if life ever gets in the way of giving your dog their usual daily activities.

1. Prepare Lick Mats & Frozen Treats

   
   

This option works best if you know ahead of time that you’ll be out of commission for a few days — surgery, illness, recovery, etc. But honestly, these are great to prep anytime!

Take your dog’s lick mats, KONGs, bowls, empty containers, or anything similar and fill them with fun treats. I usually use things like Greek yogurt, pumpkin, broth, peanut butter, kibble, treats, or supplements. Then freeze them overnight.

When you’re feeling okay enough to get up, simply pull one out of the freezer and let your pup enjoy.

These usually keep Marlee occupied anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, and afterward she’s completely exhausted. One of my favorite quick versions is using the leftover Greek yogurt container once we finish it — I’ll toss some kibble inside, roll it around, freeze it, and it becomes an easy little enrichment activity for her.

2. Hide and Seek

   
   

Marlee and I recently did this when I felt well enough to move around the house but definitely couldn’t handle outdoor playtime.

Have your dog go to their “place,” whether that’s their crate, bed, mat, or another area of the house. Then take treats, toys, or even yourself and hide in another room. Once you’re ready, release your dog and let them search.

This game is amazing because it combines impulse control, sniffing, mental stimulation, and prey-drive satisfaction all in one activity. It tires Marlee out surprisingly fast and requires very little energy from me.

3. CBD or Calming Treats

   
   

CBD or calming treats can be a huge help on days when you truly have no energy or can’t be standing for long periods of time.

We use CBD with Marlee whenever she needs a little extra help settling down, and I definitely notice a difference in her energy levels. It helps her relax, unwind, and comfortably nap throughout the day instead of feeling restless.

Of course, always make sure you’re using a trusted product and giving the correct dosage for your dog’s size and needs.

4. Toys That Play With Your Dog

   
   

People are seriously amazing because there are now so many products designed to help entertain dogs even when their owners are busy, injured, sick, or simply need extra help.

You can find interactive toys almost anywhere now — Amazon, pet stores, training shops, etc. Some automatically throw tennis balls, some roll around the house for your dog to chase, and others are designed for outdoor play and movement.

These can be especially helpful if you still want your dog to get some activity while allowing yourself to rest. Of course, most of these toys are best used with supervision, so they’re ideal for days when you can relax nearby but don’t necessarily have the energy/ability to actively play.

5. Ask Friends & Family for Help

   
   

This is always one of my go-to solutions whenever I feel like Marlee isn’t getting everything she needs from me.

Having supportive friends and family nearby is such a blessing. Ask someone to stop by, spend some time with you, and help entertain your dog for a bit. Even a short play session involving tug, fetch, chasing, or interactive play with a familiar person can completely wear your dog out for the day.

Plus, it’s a great excuse to spend some quality time together. Offer to order food, watch a movie, or just hang out while they help with your pup. It’s honestly a win-win for everyone.

6. Hire a Dog Walker or Sitter

   
   

If you need more support, consider hiring a trusted dog walker, sitter, or trainer.

You can find great options through Facebook groups, Rover, local trainers, or referrals from your vet. Having someone come by to take your dog on a long walk, provide enrichment, or simply spend time playing with them can make a huge difference.

This allows you to fully rest and recover while still making sure your dog’s physical and mental needs are being met.

At the end of the day, life happens. There will be moments when you can’t give your dog 100% of your usual routine — and that’s okay.

In order to show up for them long-term, you also need to take care of yourself in the short-term. Finding small ways to support your dog during those harder days can make recovery easier for both of you, and getting back into your normal routine afterward feels even more rewarding.

What are some things you do to help satisfy your dog’s needs when you’re sick, busy, or unable to stick to your regular routine? Let me know in the comments below — I’d love to hear your ideas!