A financial expert has given up trying to help a 30-year-old dog owner who refuses to work in the office because of her pet’s separation anxiety, leaving her with an unstable income.
On Tik Tok videoCaleb Hammer explained that women’s reluctance to work in traditional roles made it impossible for him to develop a practical budget based on their irregular income. Despite offering resources and suggestions, Hammer admitted he couldn’t help someone who was unwilling to adjust to financial reality.
The woman, who had held a remote job for one year and two short-term jobs before that, found it increasingly difficult to secure remote work. Hammer noted that competition for remote jobs has risen dramatically, especially as technology layoffs push highly skilled professionals into the remote labor market.
“She is now competing with the best international talent,” Hammer said. He also emphasized that the gig economy is on the rise, with more than a third of the U.S. workforce — about 59 million people — working as freelancers. Globally, 50% of freelancers focus on work that requires skills such as programming, marketing, and consulting.
The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the gig economy
the US Bureau of Labor Statistics I found a spike in remote work during pandemic lockdowns. While restrictions have been lifted in 2022, participation in remote work remains well above pre-pandemic levels.
By 2025, the number of freelancers worldwide is expected to increase by 30 million, and the global freelance market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 15% until 2026.
Many turned to freelancing during the pandemic as mass layoffs and business closures left people dependent on stimulus checks. About 75% of new freelancers now combine online and offline work to ensure financial stability in turbulent times.
While remote work offers flexibility, independence, and diverse earning opportunities, it does have its drawbacks. Hammer noted that while in-office jobs guarantee regular income, remote work often results in sporadic payments, making long-term financial planning difficult.
Dog separation anxiety: a growing issue
Hammer’s attempts to help the woman find a solution repeatedly hit a wall due to what he called the “dog thing.” The woman’s refusal to leave her pet alone complicated her ability to earn a steady income.
Separation anxiety from pets is a real struggle for many dog owners, reveals A Sertabit He studies It appears that 47% of dog parents feel anxious when separated from their pets. For some, this anxiety ranges from a reluctance to leave their pets alone to a complete refusal to travel without them.
The pandemic has exacerbated this problem, as many people are working 100% remotely during lockdowns and have become accustomed to being with their pets all day. Returning to the office has proven difficult, forcing some pet parents to completely reconsider their job roles.
Past traumatic experiences — such as a pet falling ill in a kennel or a dog sitter neglecting her duties — can make owners more determined never to leave their dogs behind again. In addition, rescued dogs with challenging histories often require close emotional support, which further bonds their owners to them.
Hammer suggested that the woman consider getting a family member to care for her dog temporarily to help her transition to a more stable job, but she resisted the idea.
Ways to reduce separation anxiety
Experts believe that promoting dogs’ independence can relieve separation anxiety for both pets and their owners. Training dogs to handle time away from humans is crucial, starting as soon as possible after adoption.
Dr. Linda Harper, a Chicago-based psychologist who specializes in the emotional challenges of caring for animals, invites dog owners to attend behavior or training seminars. These programs can reassure owners and help them understand that short periods of separation benefit both the pet and parent in the long run.
For those who isolate themselves for years because of their pets’ anxiety, Harper advises gradually building their confidence and seeking professional support if necessary. She argues that overcoming this anxiety will ultimately lead to a healthier, more balanced relationship between owner and dog.