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Back To School Jitters: Helping Your Pet Adjust To The Change In Routine

By on August 19, 2024

Did you know that your kids are not the only ones who must adjust to changes in their routines when back-to-school time comes around? Our furry friends must also get acclimated to the daily grind. 

Dogs and cats are susceptible to separation anxiety when bored or lonely. The trick is to teach them that it is okay to be alone sometimes. Food puzzles and games can provide enrichment for your pet, giving them a way to entertain themselves during times when the family is not home. 

If you feel uneasy leaving your canine companion to fly solo, try to find a good doggie daycare so they are exercised, stimulated, and well-cared for while you are not home.  

Help Your Pet Adjust To A New Routine

Pets get accustomed to their routines, and when it is summertime, they are used to having the family around them. It can be challenging, but you can help smooth the transition as fall approaches. 

Food Games And Puzzles 

Food games and puzzles will ease the back-to-school blahs and equip your pet with the best tools possible to combat loneliness when they are home alone. Dogs and cats benefit from enrichment and fun mental exercises. You can fill a KONG toy with peanut butter or treats for your dog or utilize food puzzles like the Catstages Interactive Treat Puzzle for your feisty feline.  

These toys will help your dog or cat overcome separation anxiety and relieve the stress that many pets experience when their routine changes. They will also improve your furry friend’s cognitive function and problem-solving skills. When your pet’s mind is engaged, they will not have time to wonder where everyone went.  

Doggie Daycare   

Doggie daycare may be a potential option if you do not want your dog to be home alone. Research places in your area, and make sure to choose one that is right for your precious pup. According to The American Kennel Club, some of the ways you can tell if a doggie daycare center passes the test: 

  • “Is it clean and organized?
  • Does it have secure fencing?
  • Is there enough staff to ensure security?
  • What kind of training does the staff have?
  • Does the facility have procedures in place for emergencies? 
  • Does it have minimal odors and a comfortable temperature?
  • Is the area free of hazards, like electrical cords, wires, or broken toys?”

Doggie daycare is fun for pups because it allows them to meet and play with their canine compadres. It also provides them with a routine that alleviates separation anxiety and boredom and includes plenty of exercise and tail-wagging activities.

 Exercise Your Pet Before You Leave The House 

 Exercise your pet before you leave the house. It is the best method to ensure your dog or cat will expend the energy they need to calm down. Once they are relaxed, they will drift off to dreamland instead of fretting and fussing over being alone. 

Take the dog for a walk or play a quick game of fetch. Get out your furry feline’s favorite wand toy and let kitty exercise their inner hunter. A play session will help them wind down, and they will happily retreat to their cat bed for a rest. 

Gradually Shift Your Pet’s Schedule 

Start to shift your pet’s schedule for the school season and make gradual changes to prepare them for their new routine. It may take a little time for your pet to adjust, so be patient with them. About two to three weeks before school starts, try to implement a few changes in their daily pattern: 

  • Feed them at the same time each day
  • Change the times you exercise and walk them
  • Include your pet in family time when the kids would normally be home 
  • Reinforce quiet time during the hours when your children will be at school  

A slow and steady adjustment will be less noticeable than a sudden switch. If your pet is forced to fall into a new routine right away, it may confuse them. Making these modifications gradually will help reduce your pet’s anxiety once the school season begins.  

Establish A Comfortable Home Environment 

Some dogs love to chill out in a crate because it makes them feel safe. If your pup tends to require a lot of supervision, a crate could be your best option. The RSPCA indicates, “Your dog’s crate should be big enough for them to stand, turn around, lie down, and stretch in.” 

Set it up so that your dog feels content and comfortable. Place a dog mat or a soft blanket in the crate to make the space cozy and warm. Add a water bowl and some treats, and your dog will have their own special place to relax until you get home. 

Your feline companion should have several places to perch. Cat trees are ideal for them because they relish areas where they can get up high and survey their kingdom. A window perch or cat furniture by a window will allow them to blissfully soak up the sun and watch the songbirds.  

Conclusion 

Helping your pet adjust to a back-to-school routine requires a little patience, but it will give them time to get used to the new routine. Even though it can get busy when the school session starts, it is important to make sure your pet still feels like part of the family. 

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