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Back to School How To Help Your Pets Adjust

 

After a long spring and summer of enjoying extended family time (thanks COVID-19!), suddenly leaving your dog home alone is bound to upset him, and he's not the only one. Leaving a cat alone can also result in anxiety and depression. So how can we help our pets cope with the new school year?


Help Your Dog Adjust to More Time Alone

You’ve prepared the kids for back to school, but how about the pets? Your pets may experience some home alone issues as the family becomes more focused on school-related activities that pull you and your kids away from home. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust to your fall schedule:

Exercise: A tired dog is a good dog! Spend time exercising your dog before you leave for the day. Go for a walk, play fetch in your yard, do some fun training exercises.

Doggie Daycare: Check out doggie daycares in your area or consider hiring a dog walker. It may be worth the expense for a day of supervised play and exercise.

Puzzle Toys: Keep your dog busy while you’re away. Stuff a Kong with treats, hide kibble around his play area, or set up puzzle toys to provide your dog with mental stimulation and entertainment. 

Crate Training: Try crate training your dog. Need help? The Humane Society has some great tips here.

Secure Indoors: When the kids leave for school, keep your dog securely inside your home so he isn’t tempted to follow your child down the street.

Supervise Playdates: When new friends come over to play, make sure everyone stays safe! Your dog may be overwhelmed by all the excitement, so be sure to supervise interactions.

Prep your cat for back to school MFiber

Prep Your Cat For Back to School

Introduce Your Cat to Short Periods of Separation

Your cat has probably gotten used to you being around the house more often during this spring and summer. Start leaving your cat home alone for smaller extended periods of time.

Be sure to have plenty of stimulation available to them such as a cat tree or a nice lounging spot near the window.

Provide A LOT of Mental Stimulation

A few weeks before the school year starts, get your cat a toy that requires a lot of concentration for them to figure out. Teach your cat how to use the toy and show that it’s a fun experience.

Give Your Cat Live Entertainment

If you have a safe, secured window, set up a perch near it for your cat to enjoy the great outdoors from inside by setting up a bird feeder outside the window! This helps provide mental stimulation when your cat is home alone.