Making the Grade: How to Prepare Your Pet for Back to School

1. Gradually adjust your pet’s schedule

Pets, like people, benefit from a consistent schedule. To prepare your pet for the upcoming changes, start adjusting their routine gradually a few weeks before school starts:

• Feeding times — Begin feeding your pet at the times they will be fed once school starts.
• Walks and playtime — If your dog is used to midday walks that will no longer be possible, gradually shift their walks to earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• Quiet time — Encourage quiet time during the hours your child will be at school to help your pet get accustomed to the new activity and rest patterns.

By making these adjustments gradually, your pet will be less likely to become anxious when the new routine begins.

2. Create a safe and comfortable space for your pet

With the kids back at school, your pet will likely feel lonely or bored, but a dedicated space where they feel safe and comfortable can make a big difference. Outfit your furry friend’s space with:

• Cozy bed — Place a comfortable bed in a quiet part of the house where your pet can retreat and relax.
• Favorite toys — Keep their favorite toys and chew items in this space for comfort and entertainment.
• Calming aids — Consider calming aids like pheromone diffusers or calming music designed to help ease pet anxiety.

A space where your pet feels secure can help them cope while their favorite human companions are absent during the day.

3. Provide mental stimulation for your pet

Boredom can lead to destructive behavior in pets. Engage your four-legged friend’s mind with:

• Interactive toys — Invest in puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys that challenge your pet and keep them occupied.
• Training sessions — Short, daily training sessions can provide mental stimulation and strengthen your bond. Teach new tricks or reinforce basic commands.
• Hide and seek — Hide treats around the house for your pet to find. “Hunting” for treats also allows them to exercise their natural instincts.

Mental stimulation can help reduce anxiety and keep your pet entertained while the kids are at school.

4. Exercise your pet regularly

Exercise is essential for your pet’s physical and mental health. Ensure your pet gets adequate exercise to help burn off excess energy and reduce stress with:

• Morning walks — A brisk morning walk before everyone heads their separate ways can help your dog burn off energy and feel more relaxed during the day.
• Evening playtime — Schedule a play session or another walk in the evening to help your pet unwind and enjoy quality time with the family.
• Indoor activities — For cats, provide climbing trees, tunnels, and other indoor activities that encourage physical movement.

Regular exercise not only keeps your pet healthy, but can also help mitigate the effects of the routine change.

5. Arrange for companionship for your pet

Pets often feel lonely when their human family members are away for long periods. Companionship can help alleviate their loneliness and provide social interaction. Consider arranging:

• Pet sitters or dog walkers — Hiring a pet sitter or dog walker to visit your pet during the day can provide much-needed companionship and exercise.
• Doggy daycare — Consider enrolling your pooch in doggy daycare, where they’ll have social interaction and activities, for a few days a week.

The social interaction and mental stimulation of being with other dogs will make the transition to the new routine less stressful.

The new routine that comes with the kids heading back to school can be challenging for pets and people. You can help your four-legged family members feel secure and happy by gradually adjusting them to the new household schedule. However, if your pet experiences anxiety or stress as your family transitions to the new school year, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for help.