Help your pets transition from lazy summer days to busy school-year routines
by Lauren Cavagnolo
For many families, back to school marks the end of a slower summer routine and the return of the school rush. Don’t let your family pet get lost in the shuffle as schedules fill up with school, extracurricular activities and more. Sudden changes in routine can be stressful for family pets, but with a little preparation, many of the challenges can be avoided.
“Many [pets] adjust well, especially if everyone in the family adjusts their routine to ensure the pets still get TLC and bonding time throughout the week,” said Ashley French, DVM. “Many pets enjoy relaxation and free time, napping through the day or playing independently with toys in their home.”
However, some pets will show signs of loneliness, stress or anxiety. Pets often communicate these feelings in the form of destructive behaviors or health issues, such as house soiling or conflict with other pets, added French.
Helping pets adjust to big changes starts with their routine. Just as parents gradually adjust or reset bedtimes and wake-up times for their children, the same approach can be used for pets. To adjust your pet’s schedule, try moving their walk, feeding or bedtime by 15 minutes over several days.
“Depending on the family’s routine, carve out time for morning or evening walks, playtime or training sessions depending on the things your pet enjoys doing,” French suggested.
For the times when pets are home alone, it’s important to set them up for success. In addition to making sure they are used to their routine, owners should make sure they have comfy and clean bedding for their pet’s kennel or enclosure. Snuffle mats, puzzle toys and window perches for cats can all enhance a pet’s time alone.
Ensuring time for your pet’s preferred exercise or mentally engaging activities is also key for heading off behavior issues before they start.
“A walk, fresh air and sunshine therapy, or your pet’s preferred exercise or work is important,” French stressed. “If you think your pet will do best being checked on, played with, or they need medications in the middle of the day, a pet sitter or dog walker may be helpful. This could be a family friend, neighbor or a service that can help with this.”
For some dogs, daycare or a training or agility course may be a good fit, depending on their personality and temperament.
“There are different models of daycare — some dogs do best in small groups while others need a daycare that offers an independent plan. Training and agility is great for some dogs, especially sporting or working breeds and dogs with high energy. It’s always best to talk to the staff at any of these facilities and get their feedback on what they think is best for an individual dog after an introductory period,” French recommended.
With just a little bit of planning, pets can still enjoy the affection, exercise and routine they thrive on as the kids head back to school.
Back-to-School Checklist for Your Pets
As families settle into the new school season, parents are updating paperwork, scheduling appointments and shopping for supplies. Why not give your pets the same back-to-school treatment? From wellness checkups to refreshing routines, these simple tasks can help keep your furry family members healthy, happy and ready for the busy season ahead.
Update your Emergency Contact Info
Make sure your dog or cat’s microchip is up to date with the best contact info to reach you. It is also a good time to replace worn out physical tags.
Annual Checkup
Schedule your pet’s annual checkup and make sure their vaccines and preventative medications are up to date. Make sure to talk to your veterinarian about any concerns or new behaviors you have noticed with your pet.
Set a School Schedule
Just like kids, our pets benefit from predictable routines. Make sure feedings, walks and bedtime are predictable and fit your family’s schedule. If it has been a summer of impromptu walks and late nights, start readjusting your pet’s feedings, walks and bedtimes to fit with your regular routines.
Back-to-School Shopping
Don’t leave your furry children out of the back-to-school shopping. Spoil your dog or cat with a new collar, leash, bedding, toys or any other pet supplies that have become worn out. It’s also a good time to make sure collars and harnesses have a good fit on young or growing pets.
First Day Pictures
We have all seen them on our social feeds: the first-day-of-school pictures of toothless kiddos with fresh backpacks, holding signs declaring their grade. Stage your own adorable photo shoot with a first-day sign filled out with all your pet’s favorites and stats (backpack optional).
Sign Up for After-School Activities
Keep your dog engaged with his own extracurricular activities. From dock diving to agility, PAWS for reading or therapy visits, there are activities to fit with every dog’s personality. Get Fido (and yourself) out of the house with a weekly training class. Cats can also benefit from time with interactive toys and climbing posts.
Homework Time
Help your pet brush up on manners. Try choosing a basic skill to focus on for a couple of weeks and incorporate it into your everyday routine.
Restock the Medicine/Supply Cabinet
While you are organizing and preparing for the busy season ahead, make sure you are stocked with any medicines or supplements your pet takes regularly as well as favorite treats, backup toys, shampoos, flea and tick preventatives, and vitamins.
Back-to-School Haircuts
Make sure your pet is just as fresh and clean as the kids. Book an appointment for a new ‘do, bath and/or pedicure.
