Back to School Isn’t Just an Adjustment for Kids: Helping Your Pet With the Change in Routine
Backpacks are packed, lunches are ready and alarm clocks are being set — back-to-school season is here!
While September can bring a big change in routine for families, there’s another member of the household who may notice the difference too: your pet.
After a summer filled with people coming and going, kids at home, vacations and extra activity, suddenly finding the house much quieter can be an adjustment for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Some pets may take the change in stride, while others may show signs of stress, boredom or separation-related behaviours.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to help make the transition easier.
Make Time for Morning Exercise
A little activity before everyone heads out can make a big difference. Take your dog for a walk, spend some time playing with your cat or provide another form of enrichment before beginning the day’s routine. Physical exercise and mental stimulation can help pets settle more comfortably once the house becomes quiet.
It doesn’t have to be a marathon — even a short walk, sniffing session or game can help start their day on a positive note.
Give Them Something to Do
Imagine going from a busy house full of activity to several hours with nothing to do! Provide safe, engaging activities to keep your pet occupied while the family is away. Depending on your pet, this might include:
- Puzzle feeders or food-dispensing toys
- Treats or kibble hidden around the home for them to find
- Safe chew toys
- A favourite spot near a window
- Rotating toys so they remain interesting
- Cardboard boxes, tunnels or other enrichment for cats and small animals
Remember to choose enrichment that is appropriate for your individual pet and safe to leave with them unsupervised.
Keep Arrivals and Departures Calm
As tempting as it may be to make a big production out of saying goodbye — or coming home after a long day — keeping arrivals and departures relatively calm can help make them feel like a normal part of the routine.
Once everyone is home and settled, there will be plenty of time for cuddles, walks and play!
Don't Forget About After-School Time
Homework, extracurricular activities, dinner and bedtime can make evenings busy, but remember that your pet has been waiting for their family to come home too.
Build some pet time into your family’s after-school routine. A walk around the neighbourhood, a game in the backyard, a training session or even some quiet time together on the couch can provide valuable enrichment and companionship.
Encouraging children to participate in age-appropriate pet care can also be a great way to help maintain that connection once school starts.
Watch for Signs Your Pet Is Struggling
Some pets may need more time or support to adjust to a new routine. Changes such as excessive barking or vocalizing, destructive behaviour, accidents in the house, pacing, changes in appetite or unusual clinginess may indicate that your pet is having difficulty with the transition.
If you’re concerned about a significant or persistent change in your pet’s behaviour, speak with your veterinarian. They can help rule out medical concerns and recommend appropriate next steps.
A New Routine Can Be a Good Routine
Back-to-school season is an adjustment for the entire household — paws included!
With consistency, enrichment, exercise and a little extra attention, you can help your pet understand that while their family’s schedule may be changing, they’re still an important part of it.
And after a long day of school or work, chances are they’ll be very happy to welcome everyone home.