As children head back to school this month, many families and their pets will be adjusting to a new routine. The school year often brings earlier mornings, busier schedules and fewer people at home during the day to keep pets active and entertained.
Just like people, pets thrive on consistency. Predictable routines help reduce stress and create a sense of security, leading to calmer behavior and a happier household. The good news is that a few simple changes can help make the transition easier.
#1 Start gradually
Any adjustment takes time. Rather than changing your pet’s routine overnight, begin making small shifts in the days leading up to the first day of school. Move breakfast a little earlier, adjust walk times or gradually introduce longer periods of alone time so the transition feels less abrupt.
#2 Prioritize physical exercise
If your pet is used to activity and attention throughout the day, a suddenly quiet house can lead to boredom and excess energy. This can result in chewing, scratching, getting into trash or other unwanted behaviors. Schedule time for exercise, especially in the morning, before pets are left alone for several hours. Regular activity also helps reduce anxiety and maintain a healthy weight.
#3 Add mental enrichment
Physical exercise is important, but mental stimulation matters too. Enrichment activities engage a pet’s natural instincts and help prevent boredom.
For dogs, try “sniffaris” (slow walks focused on exploring and sniffing), puzzle feeders, lick mats, food toys or short obedience and trick-training sessions.
For cats, enrichment can include puzzle feeders, lick mats, interactive toys, bird feeders viewed safely through a window and cat-safe grasses or plants to explore.
#4 Watch for signs of anxiety
Some pets struggle more than others with routine changes. Signs of stress may include excessive panting, clinginess, vocalizing when family members leave, destructive behavior or accidents in the house. In addition to exercise and enrichment, consider soft background noise or calming pheromone products. If anxiety becomes severe or persistent, talk with your veterinarian to rule out medical concerns and discuss treatment options.
#5 Update preventive care
The start of the school year brings busy calendars and long to-do lists. Scheduling wellness visits ahead of time and making sure preventive care is current can help keep pets healthy and give families one less thing to manage during a hectic season.
A little preparation now can help everyone, both two-legged and four-legged, settle into the school year smoothly.
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