Back-to-School Blues and Behavior Woes: Tips for Keeping Your Pets Happy Despite Schedule Changes
- Cassi Colvett
- Aug 2, 2023
- 4 min read
As the school bells ring and the kids rush back to their classrooms, our furry friends can't help but notice the changes in their once-lively homes. With the shift in routines, our pets might experience behavioral issues that leave them feeling a bit ruff. But worry not, at Social Petworking, we've got the ABCs of tackling these challenges, so everyone—human and furry alike—can have a smooth transition into the back-to-school season.
Back-to-School Blues
When the school season rolls in, our canine companions can often experience what we call the "back-to-school blues." Dogs are social animals that form strong bonds with their human family members, especially with the kids who have been their playmates and constant companions during the summer. When the kids head back to school, the sudden change in routines can leave our furry friends feeling lonely, anxious, or sad. However, there are several ways to help prevent your pets from being sad during this transition and ways to tackle the back-to-school blues if they do arise.
Prevention Ideas
Gradual Adjustment: Start adjusting your pet's routine a few weeks before school begins to ease them into the upcoming changes gradually.
Create a Safe Space: Designate a cozy and comfortable spot in your home for your pet, where they can retreat to feel secure and relaxed.
Interactive Toys: Provide engaging toys and puzzles that offer mental stimulation and keep your dog occupied during times when they're alone.
Playdates: Arrange playdates with other friendly dogs or invite friends over to keep your pet socialized and entertained.
Training and Enrichment: Engage your dog in short training sessions and fun enrichment activities to boost their confidence and keep their minds sharp.
Solutions for the Back-to-School Blues
Quality Time: Spend quality time with your pet when you're back from work and your kids are back from school. Engage in playtime, go for walks, and show them that they're still a cherished part of the family.
Pet Sitters or Dog Walkers: Consider hiring a pet sitter or a dog walker to give your furry friend some company and attention during the day.
Doggy Daycare: Enroll your dog in a reputable doggy daycare where they can interact with other dogs and receive care while you're away. Make sure the daycare keeps small play groups, or consider hiring a private sitter that offers daycare from their home.
Calming Techniques: Use calming techniques such as playing soft music, leaving on the television, or using calming pheromone diffusers to help your pet relax.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reinforce your pet when they show signs of contentment or they adjust well to the new routine. Consider purchasing a treat camera where you can check in and reinforce while you're away.
Back-to-School Behavior Woes
Some dogs may exhibit behavior problems or destructive behaviors due to the sudden change in routine. Common issues include separation anxiety, excessive barking, chewing on furniture or belongings, and even house soiling. To prevent these unwanted behaviors, it's essential to establish a consistent routine and gradually acclimate your pet to the upcoming changes. Here are some ideas to help prevent unwanted behaviors.
Prevention Ideas
Practice Gradual Departures: Before school starts, practice short departures from home to help your dog get used to being alone gradually.
Positive Association: Create a positive association with alone time by providing treats or toys that your dog enjoys when you leave.
Interactive Toys: Offer interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep your pet mentally stimulated and occupied while you're away.
Exercise and Playtime: Ensure your dog gets enough exercise and playtime before you leave, as it can help reduce pent-up energy.
Crate Training: If necessary, crate training can provide a safe and secure space for your dog during your absence and can prevent access to chewing on items they shouldn't.
Solutions for Unwanted Behaviors
Redirect Attention: If your dog exhibits destructive behaviors, redirect their attention to appropriate toys or activities.
Training and Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement training to encourage good behavior and reward them when they display calmness during departures.
Calming Aids: Consider using calming aids like calming treats, sprays, or diffusers to help soothe your pet's anxiety.
Desensitization: Gradually desensitize your dog to departure cues, such as picking up your keys or putting on your coat, to reduce anxiety triggers.
Professional Help: If your dog's behavior problems persist, seek the guidance of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who can address the specific issues.
Invest in your Pet's Well-being and Education
Remember, patience and consistency are key when dealing with behavior problems during the back-to-school season. With understanding and proactive measures, you can help your furry friend adjust to the changes and maintain a happy and harmonious home environment.
At Social Petworking, we believe that education is the key to a harmonious home, just like with our kids. Our expert trainers are ready to guide your fur babies on their journey to becoming well-rounded and well-behaved members of your family.
Embrace the Back-to-School spirit by investing in your pet's education! Book a training consultation with us or arrange for our pet-sitting services to ensure your furry friend's mental and emotional well-being. For the month of August, receive a free training consultation. The consultation price will be applied as a credit towards future services.
Let's make this back-to-school season a wagging success for your furry family members!
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