As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s important to consider how schedule changes can affect pets at home. While kids return to their classrooms and parents adjust to new routines, it can be a stressful time for pets who don’t understand exactly what’s going on – all they really know is that the people they love are suddenly around less than they were before! And stress can sometimes cause some unwanted behaviors from your furry friends, so here are a couple of tips to keep everybody happy and healthy for this new school year.
Start adjusting your routine early
Pets love their routines. Sudden changes to their normal schedule can cause anxiety. If your pet is used to morning walks, or playtime at the start of the day, begin shifting these activities to early in the day to match the upcoming schedule. This helps your pet acclimate before there is any additional pressure to take care of the little ones.
Sometimes pets can develop separation anxiety. Slowly easing your pet into spending more time on their own can be a good way to transition them into the school year. Start with short absences, and gradually extend how long you’re away. Make sure to make your departures and arrivals as relaxed as possible (i.e. no long goodbyes or super excited hellos!).
Maintain your new routine, and get the whole family involved!
Once school is back in swing, it’ll be important to stick to a consistent schedule for your pet. That includes when they’re fed, when they’re walked or played with, and when they can expect to settle down. Be sure to get everyone on board with the new routine, so that your pet doesn’t get mixed signals in your household. You can assign age-appropriate tasks like feeding, grooming, or playing with your pet. (This can help ease the burden of the schedule shift on parents, and is also great for teaching responsibility!) Keeping a routine allows pets to feel comfortable in their environment and reduces the chance of behavioral changes.
Prioritize exercise and enrichment in this new routine
Regular exercise, socialization, and enrichment is so important for your pet’s health. Be sure they’re getting enough physical exercise with walks and play sessions. Socialization with other people and pets is good for a pet too for the same reason you enjoy and need friendships in your day to day life! Especially if there’s going to be more quiet time on the regular.
Similarly to how shelter pets need a boost in “fun” when there is a limited amount of time staff or volunteers can spend with them, enrichment activities at home can help defeat boredom. Mental stimulation can come through puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and even interactive games. You can also hide treats throughout the house while you’re away to encourage your pets to use their noses and explore!
Create a safe space for your pets
Designate a comfortable area in your home where your pet can relax and retreat to. Bring over their favorite bed, their favorite toys, and even a piece of your clothing with your scent on it so they feel secure even when you’re gone.
Keep an eye out for changes in your pet’s behavior
Pay close attention to any signs of stress or anxiety in your pet, such as increased barking, whining, or destructive behaviors. Be sure to address these issues promptly to prevent them from becoming more serious. If you are concerned about your pet, be sure to speak to your veterinarian, or reach out to a behavior specialist (CHS has a program you can learn more about at CThumane.org/Pet-Behavior-Consultations/).
All your family needs is planning and attention, and you and your pets will continue to thrive, even as your household routines change. And if you’re looking for some additional education as the school year picks back up, be sure to check out all of the programs available at the Connecticut Humane Society, including scout programs, free webinars for the whole family, youth clubs, and more. Check out CThumane.org/Education-and-Outreach to learn more.
CHS would like to wish everybody a happy and healthy new school year!