It’s Back-to-School which marks the end of halcyon days as kids return to rigid schedules and after-school events that take attention away from the family dog. This time of year is academically stressful for pets as their human companions alter summer routines.
Pet owners should be acutely aware of the depressing effect on dogs that are used to constant attention and activity and now face an empty household.
At this transitional time, it’s important to pay close attention to your dog’s feelings — they love you and will miss you when you are not around. Be particularly aware of their reactions such as listlessness, excessive panting, anxiousness, or other unusual behaviors that are cues to focus on Fido.
Our tips for back-to-school boredom busters:
(1). Enroll in doggie day-care or enlist a pet sitter or dog walker to break up the day with fun activity and mental stimulation. We highly recommend AZ Dog Sports (in Phoenix) for their engaging curricula: Dog Training Classes Phoenix/Scottsdale |Schools for Dog Trainers| AZ Dog Sports.
(2). Consider the Pet Cube Camera as an option to keep an eye on your dog when you’re not at home. The Pet Cube Camera has interactive capability and allows you to both observe and dispense treats remotely! This fun and effective gadget is available in our PET STORE via link @ https://doolittlesdoghouse.com/shop/
(3). Leave an old t-shirt or other personal item lying around for your dog to sniff and think of you while you are temporarily away.
(4). Provide daily exercise. If it’s too hot for a walk, play a short game of indoor fetch or invest in entertainment toys, such as food puzzles or a treat-filled Kong. Hide them throughout the house to create a treasure hunt for your natural hunter.
(5). Leave the blinds and shutters OPEN so your dog can view neighborhood activity.
(6). Bring your dog with you to the bus stop so they can participate in the departure and return of loved ones. Better yet, bring them to the afterschool events if they can handle themselves in a calm manner.
(7). Turn on the TV or radio if you must leave him/her home alone. Classical music is best.
(8). Incorporate new and fun routines such as a trip to the drive-through at McDonald’s, Starbucks, or local Ice Cream Store for a treat everyone can enjoy.
Stay the course yet be mindful of every “child” in the home and what they need to be successful and happy during the upcoming school year!
Best wishes for happy tails always,
Hugs,
Tori
photo attribution: bored chat