Preparing Your Pet for Back to School Season: Tips for Managing Change

The back-to-school season can bring significant changes for your pet, especially as they find themselves spending more time alone at home. With kids returning to school in the coming weeks, pets may experience increased stress from the sudden shift from summer play to quiet, empty houses. This transition can be challenging for them. This blog offers back to school pet tips and insights to help your companions adjust to the new routine. Whether you have a dog, cat, or small critter, we’re here to help you foster a smooth transition and maintain a happy, healthy relationship with your pet during the back-to-school season.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes: Understanding Why Your Animals Might Be Struggling 

Just like humans, animals struggle with changes. Studies show that about 20 percent of dogs experience separation anxiety when their owners return to work or school after being home for a while. Whether it’s a new pet joining the family or your prolonged absence, these changes can leave your companion feeling unsettled. Let’s explore how different types of pets handle changes:

How Dogs Handle Change 

Dogs are creatures of habit, finding security in their daily routines. Any disruption can trigger anxiety and stress. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour found that dogs experiencing changes in their environment displayed more signs of stress than those in stable settings. Additionally, a survey revealed that 82 percent of dogs show visible signs of distress when their routine is disrupted. These signs can range from barking and whining to destructive behaviours like chewing and digging. Understanding these signs is crucial to managing their stress. Here are some common signs of stress in dogs:

• Decreased Appetite: Stressed dogs may lose interest in food or start eating significantly less when kids go to college or experience other stressful situations.
• Isolation: Your pup might start seeking solitude, hiding in their favourite spots more than usual.
• Destructive Behaviour: Your normally well-behaved dog might begin chewing furniture, shoes or other household items.
• Increased Agitation: Stressed dogs can become more aggressive or unusually active.
• Excessive Barking: Increased barking or whimpering can also be a sign of anxiety.
• Changes in Sleeping Habits: Like us, dogs can experience sleep disturbances when they’re stressed, leading to increased sleepiness or insomnia. 

How to Calm an Anxious Dog 

If you notice any of the above behaviours in your dog, you might wonder, “How can I calm an anxious dog?” Here are some tips to help soothe stressed dogs:

• Understand What’s Causing the Anxiety: Anxiety in dogs can stem from various fears and phobias. Without identifying the root cause, it’s challenging to address effectively. Monitor your dog closely, noting triggers and past experiences.
• Recognize Early Signs: Prompt intervention is key to managing anxiety. Learn to interpret your dog’s body language to catch initial signs of stress early. This allows you to modify the environment and alleviate discomfort promptly.
• Build Your Dog’s Confidence: A confident dog handles fearful situations better. Establishing a consistent routine helps boost your dog’s self-assurance.
• Create a Safe, Calm Place for Your Dog: Anxious dogs benefit from a designated safe area associated with positive experiences, such as treats and toys. Teach your dog to love this space through rewards and pleasant interactions. Train them to go there on command for portable relaxation.
• Never Punish After the Fact: Punishing your dog after the fact can exacerbate anxiety. For instance, scolding your dog for a torn couch hours after the incident confuses them and creates unnecessary stress. 

How Cats Handle Change 

Similar to dogs, cats are highly sensitive to their environment. They notice even the smallest changes at home, so major deviations like switching owners or households can be extremely stressful for them. While cats can adapt to change, they prefer it to happen gradually. Recognizing the signs of stress in cats can also be more challenging. They often show a combination of behavioural, body language and habit changes. Below are some common signs of stress in cats:

• Toileting or spraying in the house.
• Increased or new scratching of furniture.
• Over-grooming.
• Hiding for long periods.
• Increased vocalization.
• Changes in body language, such as a tense, hunched body, flattened ears, and dilated pupils. 

How Small Pets Handle Stress 

Even small, adorable critters get stressed! Despite their seemingly carefree existence, pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, mice, gerbils and bunnies can be quite sensitive. These small mammals are more prone to stress because, evolutionarily, they are prey animals. They constantly evaluate their environment for potential threats. Even the slightest upset can stress them out, so it’s important to consider how household changes might affect your small companions. It could be as simple as a dietary change or as complex as moving to a new home. If unable to cope, they can develop stress-related issues and potential diseases. Even experienced pet parents may not always realize their critter is stressed since the signs are often subtle. Watch out for these signs of anxiety in your small pets:

• Isolation or hiding.
• Struggling when being handled, especially if they used to be comfortable with it.
• Hypervigilance, including pacing or yawning.
• Guarded posture or freezing when you enter the room.
• Decreased activity and appetite.
• Excessive grooming or stopping grooming altogether.
• Aggression or fighting with other animals in the cage.
• Lethargy or excessive sleeping, especially in hamsters.

Back to School Prep for Your Pets: 5 Tips to Make the Transition Easier 

1. Ease Your Pet Into a New Routine 

You should start easing your pet into their new routine at least two weeks before the new semester begins. Gradually introduce your pet to the new schedule. If you have a dog, wake up early, take them for a long walk and engage them in activities they can do when they’re home alone. Getting everyone used to the new routine in advance will make the adjustment period smoother and help your pet acclimate to the new schedule before they face the added stress of being left home alone.

2. Determine Bathroom Breaks 

While cats and small critters may be self-sufficient with their bathroom needs, during back to school dogs require regular breaks. The frequency depends on factors like your dog’s age and habits. Before school starts, determine how long your dog can stay home alone before needing a bathroom break. Ensure they get a good walk in the morning and have the first person home in the afternoon take them out again. If you’re uncertain, arrange for a trusted friend or family member to stop by at lunchtime for the first few days to let them out. 

3. Curb Boredom

Make sure to have plenty of toys on hand for your pet. For dogs, fill hollow toys with tasty treats like peanut butter and dog food, which can be prepared in advance. Create a game by hiding treats around the house for them to discover. For cats, use catnip to engage them in play. Small critters can also benefit from toys that keep them occupied while you’re away. The idea is to keep them entertained and engaged during your absence.

4. Teach Your Pet to Enjoy Being Alone

Start acclimating your pet to being alone at home now. Begin by practicing short periods of separation to gradually get them used to it. Set up a safe area for your pet, like a small room or an open crate, equipped with comfortable bedding and their favourite toys. Once they’re at ease when you’re in another room, start leaving them in their designated space when you step outside or leave the house. Teaching them to spend time alone now will help prevent separation anxiety when the school year begins.

5. Make Sure Your Pet Has Proper Identification

During the hustle of back-to-school season, it’s easy for pets to wander off and get lost. Without proper identification, their chances of being reunited with you are slim. Alongside ID tags, consider getting your pet microchipped – it’s the most reliable way to ensure they can be identified if they go missing. At the Humane Society of Greater Niagara, every cat or dog adoption includes a 24PetWatchMicrochip, providing added security for their safe return home if they ever get lost.

6. Try a Practice Run 

The best way to gauge your readiness is through a trial run! Spend a day away from home, simulating the duration you’d be gone for work or school. Consider leaving the TV or radio on – it can help ease your pet’s anxiety, as some owners find it soothing for their pets. 

Once School Starts, Don’t Forget To... 

Set Your Alarm a Bit Earlier For Some Extra One-on-One Time

Instead of rushing through your morning routine, consider setting your alarm 15 to 20 minutes earlier to enjoy some quality time with your pets. This extra time allows for a more satisfying walk with your dog, giving both of you more exercise and fresh air – the perfect way to start the day! 

Don’t Make a Big Deal Out of Leaving 

As everyone rushes out the door for work and school, try to keep farewells short. Extended goodbyes can heighten separation anxiety in pets. Encourage your family to say a friendly “See you later!” to your pets without lingering too long. 

Take Your Dog For a Longer Walk 

After a long day at work or school, you’re probably eager to relax. However, taking your dog for a longer walk can help you unwind while ensuring your pets get the essential exercise they need. Don’t overlook playtime either – both of you deserve some enjoyable moments to cap off your day.

Want to Learn More About Back to School Prep for Pets? Contact HSGN!  

Preparing for the back-to-school season is essential for the well-being of your pets, whether they’re dogs, cats, or small animals. For expert advice on helping your pets adjust to changes and valuable back-to-school pet tips, including guidance on managing dogs when kids go to college, reach out to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara. We’re committed to ensuring both you and your pets have a smooth transition back to school.